Investigating how HIV-1 hides in the brain
Understanding the mechanisms involved in HIV-1 CNS latency
This study is looking at how HIV-1 can hide in the brain and other parts of the body even when people are taking their medication, and it aims to find out how to wake up the virus so we can better get rid of it for those living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11176904 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how HIV-1 can remain hidden in the brain and other tissues of people living with HIV, even when they are on treatment. The study aims to explore the mechanisms that allow the virus to establish a state of latency, where it can stay inactive for long periods. By examining specific brain cells, such as microglia and macrophages, the researchers hope to identify the factors that contribute to this latency and how it can be disrupted. This could lead to new strategies for eliminating the virus from the central nervous system.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are currently on antiretroviral therapy and have neurological involvement or concerns.
Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those who are not on antiretroviral therapy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments that effectively target and eliminate HIV-1 reservoirs in the brain, potentially leading to a functional cure.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding HIV latency in peripheral tissues, but this specific focus on the central nervous system is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ayyavoo, Velpandi — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Ayyavoo, Velpandi
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.