Improving HIV Vaccine Protection
Synergizing neutralization and non-neutralization antibody targets at the HIV/SIV viral spike apex
This work explores new ways to make an HIV vaccine more effective by focusing on specific parts of the virus that antibodies can target.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11166291 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
For 40 years, scientists have been working on an HIV vaccine, and this project draws lessons from successful COVID-19 vaccines. We are looking at how antibodies protect against viruses like SARS-CoV-2 and applying those insights to HIV. Our goal is to design better vaccine components that guide the body's immune response to key areas on the HIV virus, specifically targeting both neutralizing and non-neutralizing antibody sites. Early results in animal models show promising protection, suggesting this approach could significantly boost vaccine effectiveness.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work is for anyone who could benefit from a future HIV vaccine, particularly those at risk of HIV infection.
Not a fit: Patients currently living with HIV would not directly benefit from this vaccine development, as it focuses on preventing new infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to the development of a highly effective HIV vaccine, offering protection against HIV acquisition.
How similar studies have performed: While this specific approach to targeting both neutralizing and non-neutralizing sites is novel for HIV, the general strategy of learning from successful COVID-19 vaccine development has shown promise.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- New York University School of Medicine — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cardozo, Timothy J — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Cardozo, Timothy J
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.