Targeting brain cells to eliminate HIV
Brain myeloid cell-targeted multiplexed gene editing for SIV/HIV eradication
This study is exploring new ways to use gene editing to target and remove HIV-infected cells in the brain, which could help people living with HIV by potentially eliminating the virus that hides in these cells, and it will start by testing these methods in macaques before moving on to humans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas Biomedical Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11026383 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative gene editing techniques to specifically target and eliminate HIV-infected myeloid cells in the brain. By utilizing advanced CRISPR technology delivered through adeno-associated viruses (AAV), the project aims to eradicate the virus that persists in these long-lived cells, which can contribute to ongoing infection even during antiretroviral therapy. The research will initially be conducted in animal models, particularly macaques, to assess the effectiveness of these strategies before considering clinical applications in humans.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who have not achieved viral suppression despite antiretroviral therapy.
Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who are not experiencing complications related to HIV may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a groundbreaking approach for curing HIV by targeting the virus hidden in brain cells.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using gene editing techniques for HIV eradication, but this specific approach targeting brain myeloid cells is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
San Antonio, United States
- Texas Biomedical Research Institute — San Antonio, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ling, Binhua "Julie" — Texas Biomedical Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Ling, Binhua "Julie"
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.