Improving HIV vaccine effectiveness by studying sugar structures on the virus

Harnessing native glycosylation to improve immunogenicity of HIV-1 Env immunogens

NIH-funded research Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-11075914

This study is looking at how certain sugar molecules on the HIV virus can affect how well vaccines work, with the goal of creating better vaccines that help your immune system fight HIV more effectively.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11075914 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of HIV vaccines by investigating the sugar molecules (glycans) that cover the HIV envelope protein. These glycans play a crucial role in how the virus interacts with the immune system and can hinder the production of protective antibodies. By understanding the specific glycan structures present on the virus, researchers aim to design vaccine candidates that better mimic these structures, potentially leading to a stronger immune response. The study will involve analyzing the glycosylation patterns of HIV proteins to inform vaccine development strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for HIV infection or those living with HIV who may benefit from improved vaccine strategies.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for HIV or those who are already effectively managing their HIV with existing treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of a more effective HIV vaccine, reducing the incidence of HIV infections.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing vaccine responses through glycan manipulation, indicating that this approach may yield significant advancements in HIV vaccine development.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.