Minimal MHC‑E SIV targets for a vaccine that can stop viral replication
Project 3: Determination of the minimal MHC-E-restricted SIV epitope targeting required for RhCMV/SIV vaccine-mediated SIV replication arrest efficacy
This project looks at whether a vaccine that trains a special kind of T cell to recognize a small set of SIV targets can stop the virus and inform HIV vaccines for people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11127476 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses rhesus CMV vaccine vectors carrying SIV pieces in a monkey model to see which viral targets are needed for strong MHC‑E‑restricted CD8+ T cell responses. Researchers will map the T cell receptors and clonotypes that respond, measure their binding strength and cross-reactivity, and define the smallest set of epitopes that still achieves viral control. They will then test how those targeted responses affect SIV replication and clearance after challenge in rhesus macaques. Findings aim to reveal immune features that could be translated to HIV vaccine design for people.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for future clinical translation would be people at risk for HIV infection who might enroll in MHC‑E‑targeted vaccine trials.
Not a fit: People with long-established HIV infection and entrenched viral reservoirs are unlikely to benefit from a preventive‑style MHC‑E vaccine approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could guide vaccines that trigger broadly effective T cells able to stop HIV replication across diverse people.
How similar studies have performed: Related RhCMV/SIV vaccine work in rhesus macaques has produced stringent control and eventual clearance of SIV in about 59% of vaccinees, and this project builds on that promising but still novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Picker, Louis J. — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Picker, Louis 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.