Long-lasting vaginal protection against HIV using mRNA-made antibodies
Durable Vaginal Protection from HIV via mRNA expression of BNABS
This project uses mRNA delivered to the vaginal lining to produce HIV-blocking antibodies that could protect women from sexual HIV exposure.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11167456 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will deliver synthetic mRNA as a rapid aerosol to the female reproductive tract so local cells make broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) against HIV. The antibodies are engineered with a GPI-linker so they stay attached to the vaginal surface for longer periods. The approach has shown protection of macaque reproductive tissues ex vivo, and the team aims to optimize durability and safety for eventual human use. The long-term goal is a low-cost, female-controlled option to reduce new sexual HIV infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for future human testing would be HIV-negative, sexually active women at risk of vaginal HIV exposure who meet trial eligibility criteria and are willing to attend study visits at research sites.
Not a fit: People already living with HIV, those seeking only systemic prevention methods, or those at risk from non-vaginal exposure routes may not receive direct benefit from this local prevention approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could offer women a long-lasting, self-controlled way to prevent HIV infection at the site of sexual exposure.
How similar studies have performed: Broadly neutralizing antibodies have protected animal models and topical antibodies have shown short-term protection, while mRNA-based, long-lasting local antibody expression is a newer approach with encouraging macaque/explant results.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Santangelo, Philip J — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Santangelo, Philip J
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.