Investigating how T-cell depletion affects HIV-1 reservoirs in different tissues

T-cell depletion and maintenance of the HIV-1 latent reservoir in distinct tissue compartments

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11051144

This study is looking at how HIV-1 hides in certain immune cells and how kidney transplants might affect this hidden virus, with the goal of finding new ways to help people living with HIV.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11051144 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the latent viral reservoir (LVR) of HIV-1, which persists in resting CD4+ T cells. It aims to explore how T-cell depletion during organ transplantation impacts the LVR and its maintenance through various mechanisms, including antigenic stimulation and clonal expansion. By analyzing samples from individuals living with HIV who undergo kidney transplantation, the study seeks to identify the primary sources and drivers of LVR maintenance. This could provide insights into potential therapeutic strategies to eliminate HIV-1 reservoirs.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are undergoing kidney transplantation.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those who are not candidates for organ transplantation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for eradicating HIV-1 from the body, improving treatment outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding HIV reservoirs, but this specific approach of examining T-cell depletion in the context of organ transplantation is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.