Newborn immune responses to early HIV-like viruses
Neonatal Immunity to novel TF SHIVs
This project looks at how newborn and infant immune systems can make powerful HIV-fighting antibodies after early exposure, to help guide better pediatric HIV vaccines.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11258904 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers use a newborn rhesus macaque model that mimics infant HIV exposure by giving a chimeric SHIV and following immune responses over time. They track antibody development, virus levels, and key immune cells in lymph nodes where antibodies mature. The team compares newborn responses with those of adult animals (including the mothers) to find immune differences that help infants make broadly neutralizing antibodies. Findings will be used to design vaccine approaches aimed at triggering similar protective antibodies in human infants.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project does not enroll human participants; it uses neonatal rhesus macaques and laboratory samples at Duke University.
Not a fit: Because this is preclinical animal research, adults and children will not receive direct treatment benefits from the project itself.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could inform pediatric HIV vaccines that prompt broadly neutralizing antibodies and better protect infants from HIV.
How similar studies have performed: Prior neonatal rhesus macaque studies have shown infants can develop broadly neutralizing antibodies after SHIV exposure, indicating feasibility, though translating this into a safe human vaccine is not yet proven.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Williams, Wilton B — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Williams, Wilton B
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.