In-body B cell editing to make HIV-blocking antibodies
Vectored HIV Immunotherapy via in vivo B cell editing
['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11258548
Researchers will use a harmless viral delivery system to edit B cells inside the body so people living with HIV can make long‑lasting, powerful antibodies against the virus.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11258548 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If you joined this research, doctors would use an adenoviral delivery system to carry gene‑editing instructions into your B cells while they are still in your body so those cells begin producing broadly neutralizing anti‑HIV antibodies. Unlike earlier methods that remove B cells for lab-based modification, this approach edits B cells in vivo to simplify treatment and avoid complex cell handling. Edited B cells are expected to mature and switch antibody types after exposure to vaccines or viral antigens, creating durable antibody levels and immune memory. Researchers will work to improve how selectively and efficiently the vectors reach B cells and monitor safety before moving toward human trials.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be adults living with HIV who meet safety criteria—likely those on stable antiretroviral therapy and willing to join early‑phase gene‑therapy trials.
Not a fit: People who do not have HIV, those with uncontrolled infection, serious immune suppression, or contraindications to viral vectors would not be expected to benefit or be eligible.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could enable people with HIV to produce durable, broadly neutralizing antibodies from their own B cells that may lower viral levels or reduce the need for other therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Lab and ex vivo B‑cell engineering studies have produced broadly neutralizing antibodies and showed promise, but directly editing B cells inside the body is a newer, less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES
- WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY — SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CURIEL, DAVID TERRY — WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: CURIEL, DAVID TERRY
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.
Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus