Investigating how HIV and hepatitis B virus interact in liver cells
Official title: Primary cell culture models of HIV/HBV co-infection
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10888387 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how HIV and hepatitis B virus work together in liver cells to help find better treatments for people who have both infections and are at risk of serious liver problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | July 14, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $195,625 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI176944-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10888387 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are co-infected with HIV and HBV, particularly those experiencing liver complications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are solely infected with HIV or HBV without co-infection may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the complex interactions between HIV and hepatitis B virus (HBV) in liver cells, which are crucial for developing effective treatments. By creating primary cell culture models, the researchers aim to study how these viruses co-infect and affect liver health, particularly in patients who are at risk of severe liver diseases. The approach involves isolating human liver cells and observing the effects of both viruses on these cells to identify potential therapeutic targets. This research could lead to new strategies for treating patients with co-infections, ultimately improving their health outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients suffering from both HIV and HBV, potentially reducing the risk of liver cirrhosis and cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding viral co-infections, but this specific approach using primary cell cultures is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Michailidis, Eleftherios — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Michailidis, Eleftherios
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.