Targeted gene-editing delivery to hidden HIV-infected cells
Lentivirus-like particle specific delivery of Cas12 ribonucleoprotein (RNP) to HIV reservoir cells in vivo for an HIV cure
This project aims to send CRISPR-style gene editors directly into CD4 immune cells to cut out hidden HIV DNA and disable a key receptor, as a step toward a cure for people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11247537 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will build harmless, lentivirus-like particles that carry Cas12a protein and its RNA instructions to CD4-expressing cells. They plan to add CD4-targeting pieces so the particles home to the immune cells that harbor hidden HIV. The team will test delivery and gene excision in cells in the lab and in humanized (BLT) mice. The approach aims to remove proviral HIV DNA and edit the CCR5 coreceptor to prevent reinfection while minimizing unwanted edits.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal future candidates would be people living with HIV—especially those on stable antiretroviral therapy with a persistent viral reservoir—who are willing to consider experimental curative approaches.
Not a fit: People without HIV, or those with unstable medical conditions, advanced illness, or pregnancy, would not be expected to benefit from this preclinical work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could reduce or remove the hidden HIV reservoir and lower or eliminate the need for lifelong antiretroviral therapy.
How similar studies have performed: Related CRISPR and virus-like-particle delivery work has shown promise in laboratory and animal models but has not yet been proven safe or effective in humans.
Where this research is happening
Richmond, United States
- Virginia Commonwealth University — Richmond, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hu, Wenhui — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Hu, Wenhui
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.