Investigating long non-coding RNAs that control HIV expression and latency
Official title: The spectrum of long non-coding RNAs that regulate HIV expression and latency
Funded at Veterans Medical Research Fdn/san Diego · NIH-10684324 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain molecules in our cells can help control HIV, with the hope of finding better treatments that could make living with HIV easier and healthier for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Medical Research Fdn/san Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $179,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI162159-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10684324 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are seeking new treatment options or have not responded well to existing therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not living with HIV or those who have advanced AIDS may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) can regulate HIV expression and latency, which are significant barriers to curing HIV infection. By using advanced techniques like CRISPR/Cas9, the researchers aim to identify specific lncRNAs that can either activate or silence HIV. The goal is to develop more targeted and effective strategies for managing HIV by manipulating these lncRNAs, potentially leading to breakthroughs in treatment. Patients may benefit from more precise therapies that could reduce HIV replication and improve overall health outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for HIV, potentially reducing the viral load and improving the quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of lncRNAs in HIV research is a relatively novel approach, preliminary studies have shown promise in targeting gene expression for therapeutic purposes.
Where this research is happening
-
Veterans Medical Research Fdn/san Diego
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Beliakova-Bethell, Nadejda S — Veterans Medical Research Fdn/san Diego
- Study coordinator: Beliakova-Bethell, Nadejda S
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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.