Investigating differences in immune cell reservoirs related to HIV in men and women
Defining sex-based differences in the replication-competent myeloid reservoir in virally suppressed people with HIV and SIV-infected ART-suppressed macaques
This study is looking at how HIV hides in certain immune cells in people who are managing the virus well, and it wants to see if there are any differences between men and women that could help us find a cure; researchers will also check how stable these hidden spots are in both blood and brain tissues using animal models alongside human data.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11083054 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how HIV persists in immune cells called monocytes and macrophages in people who are virally suppressed. It aims to explore whether there are differences between males and females in these reservoirs of HIV, which could impact efforts to find a cure. The study will assess the stability of these reservoirs in both blood and brain tissues, using animal models to complement findings in humans. By developing a method to evaluate these reservoirs, the research seeks to enhance our understanding of HIV persistence and potential reactivation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are virally suppressed individuals living with HIV, particularly those who are interested in understanding the nuances of their condition based on biological sex.
Not a fit: Patients who are not virally suppressed or those who do not have HIV may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for eradicating HIV by targeting specific immune cell reservoirs.
How similar studies have performed: While there is existing research on HIV persistence, this study's specific focus on sex-based differences in myeloid reservoirs is relatively novel and has not been extensively explored.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Veenhuis, Rebecca Terilli — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Veenhuis, Rebecca Terilli
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.