Investigating how certain cytokines influence HIV persistence in specific immune cells.
Official title: Defining molecular pathways triggered by IL-10 and TGFb that drive HIV integration and persistence in Tfh cells in lymph nodes
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10881950 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in the body, called IL-10 and TGF-b, affect the way HIV hides in specific immune cells in the lymph nodes, and it hopes to find new ways to help people living with HIV by improving treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | July 5, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $667,365 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI179476-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10881950 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV, particularly those at different stages of infection, including those on antiretroviral therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who are in the very early stages of infection may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of cytokines IL-10 and TGF-b in the persistence of HIV within follicular helper T cells (Tfh) in lymph nodes. By examining samples from HIV-infected individuals at various stages of infection, the study aims to uncover how these cytokines contribute to the differentiation of Tfh cells that are more susceptible to HIV. The research will explore the mechanisms by which IL-10 and TGF-b suppress antiviral defenses and promote the integration of HIV into the genome of these cells, potentially leading to new therapeutic targets. Patients may benefit from insights that could inform future treatments aimed at reducing viral reservoirs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for targeting HIV reservoirs, improving treatment outcomes for patients living with HIV.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting viral reservoirs in HIV, making this approach a continuation of ongoing efforts in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pereira Ribeiro, Susan — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Pereira Ribeiro, Susan
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.