New HIV treatments that target the virus's protective shell and boost the body's defenses
Development of HIV capsid-targeting antivirals that affect immune response by modulating capsid stability and have improved resistance profiles
This research is creating new medicines to fight HIV by targeting a key part of the virus called the capsid, aiming for more effective options for people living with HIV.
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-11088224 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have a natural defense system, and this project aims to develop new HIV medications that not only attack the virus but also help activate these natural defenses. We are focusing on the HIV capsid, which is like the virus's protective shell, and learning how to make it unstable so the virus cannot multiply effectively. By understanding the capsid's structure in great detail, we can design new compounds that are more powerful and harder for the virus to resist. This approach could lead to treatments that work better and for longer, even against drug-resistant strains of HIV.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for future patients living with HIV who may benefit from new antiviral therapies with improved resistance profiles.
Not a fit: Current patients will not directly receive treatment from this basic laboratory research, as it focuses on developing new compounds rather than immediate clinical application.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new, more potent HIV medications that are effective against drug-resistant strains and also help boost the body's immune response.
How similar studies have performed: Other capsid-targeting drugs are already in clinical trials, suggesting this approach holds promise for new HIV treatments.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sarafianos, Stefan G — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Sarafianos, Stefan G
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.