Improving HIV treatments by overcoming immunity to a specific virus vector
Official title: Overcoming pre-existing immunity to AAV to enhance AAV-based HIV immunotherapies
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-10993133 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at ways to improve HIV treatments that use special viruses called AAV vectors, by finding ways to help them work better in people who already have some immunity, so that those living with HIV can get long-lasting protection and treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | December 5, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $835,249 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI175007-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10993133 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who have not previously been treated with AAV-based therapies and may have pre-existing immunity to AAV.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have severe immune deficiencies or those who are not living with HIV may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how to enhance HIV immunotherapies that use adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors by addressing the issue of pre-existing immunity in patients. The approach involves modifying AAV vectors to bypass the immune response that can prevent effective treatment. By enabling host cells to produce broadly neutralizing antibodies against HIV, this therapy aims to provide long-lasting protection and treatment for individuals living with HIV. The research focuses on understanding and overcoming the challenges posed by the immune system's response to AAV, which is crucial for the success of these therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and long-lasting HIV treatments for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using AAV vectors for gene therapy, but overcoming pre-existing immunity remains a novel challenge that this research aims to address.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Martins, Mauricio de Aguiar — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Martins, Mauricio de Aguiar
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.