Investigating how the loss of certain immune cells affects gut health in people with HIV on treatment

Effect of ILC3 loss on epithelial barrier function during ART Treated HIV infection

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11055360

This study is looking at how HIV and its treatment affect certain immune cells in the gut, which are important for keeping our intestines healthy, and it hopes to find ways to improve gut health for people living with HIV who are on medication.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11055360 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the loss of Type 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3) in individuals living with HIV who are undergoing antiretroviral therapy (ART). It aims to explore how this loss impacts the integrity of the intestinal barrier, which is crucial for preventing harmful substances from entering the bloodstream. By using human intestinal explants as a model, the study will examine the mechanisms behind ILC3 depletion and its role in microbial translocation and inflammation. This research could provide insights into improving gut health and overall well-being for those on ART.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are currently receiving antiretroviral therapy.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those not on antiretroviral therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for maintaining gut health in people living with HIV on treatment.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of using human intestinal explants is novel, similar studies have shown that understanding immune cell dynamics can lead to significant advancements in HIV treatment.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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 2026-06-10 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.