Improving HIV testing and care using advanced point-of-care tests.
The GAIN (Greater Access and Impact with NAT) Study: Improving HIV Diagnosis, Linkage to Care, and Prevention Services with HIV Point-of-Care Nucleic Acid Tests (NATs)
This study is looking at new, quick tests that can better find early HIV infections, helping both people who are HIV-negative and want to stay healthy and those who are HIV-positive, so they can get the right care and support they need.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11143599 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing HIV diagnosis and care by implementing point-of-care nucleic acid tests (NATs) that can detect acute infections more effectively than current methods. The study aims to develop and evaluate models for using these tests among both HIV-negative individuals seeking prevention options and HIV-positive individuals in various community and clinical settings. By establishing protocols and data collection methods, the research will assess how these tests can improve linkage to care and adherence to treatment. This approach seeks to address the ongoing challenges in HIV prevention and care, particularly among high-risk populations.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals seeking HIV testing, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), or post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), particularly those at high risk for HIV.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for HIV or those who are already receiving effective treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection of HIV infections and improved access to prevention and treatment services for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using point-of-care testing for various infectious diseases, indicating potential success for this novel approach in HIV care.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stekler, Joanne Donna — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Stekler, Joanne Donna
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.