Investigating how HIV-1 RNA modifications affect treatment in infected T cells

Targeting HIV-1 RNA modifications in latently infected CD4+ T cells for therapeutic development

NIH-funded research University of Iowa · NIH-11311429

This study is looking at how changes in HIV-1 RNA in certain immune cells affect the virus's ability to stay hidden even when treatment is working, and it's for people living with HIV who want to learn about new ways to improve their treatment and possibly get rid of the virus that's hiding in their bodies.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Iowa NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Iowa City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11311429 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how modifications to HIV-1 RNA in CD4+ T cells influence the virus's ability to remain dormant despite effective anti-retroviral therapy (ART). The project is divided into two phases: the first phase explores the mechanisms behind these RNA modifications, while the second phase aims to develop a new therapeutic strategy to target and alter these modifications. By studying both laboratory cell lines and primary cells from HIV-infected individuals, the researchers hope to uncover critical insights that could lead to improved treatments for HIV. Patients may benefit from advancements in therapies that could potentially eliminate the latent HIV reservoir.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who are living with HIV-1 and are currently on anti-retroviral therapy.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HIV-1 or those who are not on anti-retroviral therapy may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that help eliminate the latent HIV reservoir, potentially providing a functional cure for HIV-1 infection.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting RNA modifications in viral infections, suggesting that this approach may lead to significant advancements in HIV treatment.

Where this research is happening

Iowa City, 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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.