Improving HIV vaccine effectiveness by enhancing specific immune cells
Harnessing CD4 T follicular helper 1 cells for HIV vaccine efficacy
This study is testing a new vaccine designed to help the immune system fight HIV better by boosting special helper cells that make long-lasting antibodies, and it's being tested on rhesus macaques to see how well it works.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11012435 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a vaccine that boosts the immune response against HIV by enhancing the function of CD4 T follicular helper cells. These cells play a crucial role in generating long-lasting antibodies necessary for effective HIV prevention. The study involves immunizing rhesus macaques with a specially designed vaccine that promotes the differentiation of these helper cells, aiming to create a stronger and more durable immune response. By fine-tuning the vaccine components and administration schedule, the researchers hope to improve the longevity and effectiveness of the antibodies produced against HIV.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals at high risk for HIV infection who are seeking preventive measures.
Not a fit: Patients who are already living with HIV or those who are not at risk for HIV infection may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective HIV vaccine that provides long-lasting protection against the virus.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies in rhesus macaques have shown promising results in enhancing immune responses using similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this research.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Iyer, Swaminathan Smita — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Iyer, Swaminathan Smita
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.