Investigating how a human virus can inhibit HIV replication
Official title: Human endogenous provirus inhibition of HIV replication
Funded at Tufts University Boston · NIH-11021011 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a natural virus in our bodies might help stop HIV from spreading, and the goal is to find new ways to improve treatments for people living with HIV/AIDS.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $694,319 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI184043-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11021011 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV or those at high risk of HIV infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV or do not have a risk of HIV exposure may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a specific human endogenous retrovirus (HERV-K) can block the replication of HIV. The team will explore the mechanisms by which this provirus interacts with HIV, particularly how it prevents the assembly of the virus within human cells. By studying the genetic features of this retrovirus, researchers aim to uncover new strategies for enhancing HIV resistance and potentially developing novel therapeutic approaches. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to improved treatments for HIV/AIDS.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance the body's ability to resist HIV infection.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using endogenous retroviruses to inhibit HIV, suggesting that this approach may lead to significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts University Boston
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Coffin, John M — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Coffin, John M
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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.