Investigating how bacterial vaginosis affects HIV risk through immune cells

The Role of the Macrophage in Bacterial Vaginosis Mediated HIV Risk

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA · NIH-10918470

This study is looking at how bacterial vaginosis (BV) might affect the immune system and increase the risk of HIV in women, by checking the vaginal fluid of women with and without BV to see how different bacteria influence immune cells.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (GAINESVILLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10918470 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the connection between bacterial vaginosis (BV) and increased risk of HIV infection by examining how BV influences immune cells called macrophages. The study will analyze vaginal fluid samples from women with and without BV to understand how different microbial compositions affect macrophage behavior. By using advanced techniques like proteomics and machine learning, researchers aim to identify specific microbial factors that may lead to a higher susceptibility to HIV. This could provide insights into potential prevention strategies for women at risk.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women of reproductive age who have been diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis or are otherwise healthy.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have bacterial vaginosis or are not at risk for HIV may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing HIV in women affected by bacterial vaginosis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the microbiome's role in immune response can lead to significant advancements in HIV prevention strategies.

Where this research is happening

GAINESVILLE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.