Investigating how small clusters of infected T cells spread HIV-1

Multiscale analysis of HIV-1-induced small T cell syncytia

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT & ST AGRIC COLLEGE · NIH-10873248

This study is looking at how tiny groups of infected T cells, called syncytia, help HIV spread in the body, and it aims to find out if stopping these syncytia could be a new way to prevent the virus from spreading, which could be helpful for people living with HIV.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF VERMONT & ST AGRIC COLLEGE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BURLINGTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10873248 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how small clusters of infected T cells, known as syncytia, contribute to the spread of HIV-1 in the body. By examining the movement and behavior of these syncytia, the researchers aim to uncover their role in the early stages of HIV infection. The study will utilize advanced imaging techniques and collaborate with a leading HIV proteomics lab to analyze the factors that help maintain these syncytia. The ultimate goal is to determine if targeting these syncytia could be a viable strategy for preventing HIV dissemination.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are newly diagnosed with HIV or are at high risk of HIV infection.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HIV or those in advanced stages of HIV disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing the spread of HIV in patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the investigation of small syncytia in HIV dissemination is a relatively novel approach, previous studies have shown success in understanding larger syncytia in late-stage infections.

Where this research is happening

BURLINGTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.