Targeting and eliminating hidden HIV cells using immune cells
Antigen-specific ‘kick and kill’ of the latent HIV reservoir using dendritic cells
This study is testing a new treatment that uses special immune cells to help your body find and eliminate hidden HIV, and if you're living with HIV, you might have the chance to participate in trials to see how well it works and if it's safe.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10973592 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new immunotherapy approach to eliminate latent HIV reservoirs in the body. By utilizing specialized immune cells called dendritic cells, the study aims to activate the immune system to recognize and destroy cells that harbor the virus. The researchers will optimize a method that combines specific viral peptides to enhance the immune response, effectively 'kicking' the virus out of hiding and allowing the immune system to 'kill' the infected cells. Patients may be involved in trials to assess the safety and effectiveness of this innovative treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with chronic HIV infection who have a detectable viral reservoir.
Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who have already achieved viral suppression without the need for further intervention may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a functional cure for HIV, significantly improving the quality of life for those living with the virus.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using dendritic cells for immunotherapy in cancer and HIV, indicating a potential for success with this approach.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mailliard, Robbie B — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Mailliard, Robbie 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.