Investigating how HIV persists and remains dormant in the body
Single cell transcriptomics of HIV persistence and latency
This study is looking at how HIV hides in the body even when people are on treatment, using special mice to learn more about the different types of immune cells that carry the virus, which could help find new ways to get rid of it for good.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11037893 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind HIV persistence and latency in patients undergoing antiretroviral therapy (ART). By using a novel HIV-induced lineage tracing model in humanized mice, the study aims to identify and classify the different states of CD4 T cells that harbor the virus. The approach utilizes advanced single cell RNA sequencing techniques to gain insights into the transcriptional states of these cells without disrupting their latent state. This could lead to better strategies for activating and eliminating the viral reservoir in HIV-infected individuals.
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 experienced viral suppression.
Not a fit: Patients who are not infected 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 breakthroughs in curing HIV by effectively targeting and eliminating the viral reservoir.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in similar approaches, but this specific methodology is relatively novel and untested in the context of HIV latency.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Benjamin K — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Chen, Benjamin K
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.