Investigating how certain immune cells contribute to complications in HIV-1 patients
Official title: Neutrophil subpopulations and NETosis in HIV-1 pathogenesis
Funded at University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11133065 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a type of immune cell called neutrophils affects the health of people living with HIV-1, especially in relation to heart and blood vessel problems, by checking their behavior in blood samples to better understand these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project start | July 5, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $185,625 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI181662-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11133065 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV-1 who are experiencing or at risk for chronic health complications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV-1 or those who do not have chronic health issues related to their HIV infection may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of neutrophils, a type of immune cell, in the health complications faced by individuals infected with HIV-1. It aims to identify specific subpopulations of neutrophils that are involved in a process called NETosis, which can lead to inflammation and damage to blood vessels. By examining how these immune cells behave in HIV-1 patients, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that contribute to chronic diseases like cardiovascular issues, which have become more prevalent despite effective antiretroviral therapy. The study will involve analyzing blood samples from patients to assess neutrophil activity and its implications for overall health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing chronic diseases in HIV-1 patients, improving their long-term health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding immune cell behavior in chronic diseases can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
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University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hel, Zdenek — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Hel, Zdenek
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.