RNA vaccine that displays HIV's hidden membrane region to prompt broad antibodies
RNA-based HIV-1 chimera vaccines encoding a trimerizing host self-protein protomer linked to a viral MPER-TM segment
This RNA vaccine approach aims to teach the immune systems of people at risk for HIV to make broadly neutralizing antibodies by presenting a normally hidden part of the virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dana-Farber Cancer Inst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11307159 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will use RNA delivered in lipid nanoparticles to instruct cells to produce a chimeric protein that combines a human trimerizing partner with the HIV membrane‑proximal external region (MPER) and its transmembrane segment. The design attempts to mimic the native shape and limited access of MPER on the viral envelope so antibodies can be guided to the correct spot. Teams will validate the structure and antibody binding in laboratory models and optimize formulations before any human testing. The program is led from Dana‑Farber with multiple projects working on design, formulation, and immune response measurements.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be HIV‑negative adults at ongoing risk of exposure who might enroll in preventive vaccine trials.
Not a fit: People already living with chronic HIV infection or those with severe immune suppression are unlikely to gain direct benefit from a preventive vaccine approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could produce broadly neutralizing antibodies that protect people against diverse HIV strains.
How similar studies have performed: Previous attempts to target the MPER have had limited success generating neutralizing antibodies in animals or humans, so this RNA trimer‑mimic approach is novel and remains unproven in people.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Dana-Farber Cancer Inst — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reinherz, Ellis L — Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
- Study coordinator: Reinherz, Ellis L
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.