Improving natural killer cell function to fight HIV
Official title: PTPN1 and PTPN2 as targets to improve NK function against HIV
Funded at George Washington University · NIH-11007395 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at ways to make your immune cells, called natural killer (NK) cells, work better against HIV by using a substance called interleukin-15 (IL15) to help them fight off the virus more effectively.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | George Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $43,756 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AI186614-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11007395 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are experiencing chronic infection and may benefit from enhanced immune therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who have already achieved viral suppression with current therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how to enhance the function of natural killer (NK) cells in the fight against HIV. It focuses on understanding the signaling pathways that can boost the ability of these immune cells to eliminate HIV-infected cells. The approach involves using interleukin-15 (IL15) to stimulate NK cells, which may improve their effectiveness in controlling the virus. By targeting specific molecules, the research aims to overcome the immune exhaustion that occurs in chronic HIV infection.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies that enhance the immune response against HIV, potentially contributing to a cure.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing NK cell function in other contexts, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results for HIV treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
George Washington University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Melo, Claudia — George Washington University
- Study coordinator: Melo, Claudia
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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.