Targeting immune cells with nanoparticles to prevent HIV transmission
Official title: Improved Nanoparticle Targeting of Tissue Myeloid Cells for HIV-1 Long-acting Pre-exposure Prophylaxis
Funded at Boston University (Charles River Campus) · NIH-11040346 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new long-lasting injection to help prevent HIV, making it easier for people to stay protected without having to take a daily pill.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University (Charles River Campus) NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | March 17, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $657,525 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI175068-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11040346 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk of HIV exposure, particularly those who may struggle with daily medication adherence.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already HIV positive or those who do not have access to injectable treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a long-acting injectable form of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention. It aims to create nanoparticles that can effectively target specific immune cells in the female genital tract and rectum, ensuring sustained release of antiretroviral medications. By using a unique approach that involves binding nanoparticles to certain immune cells, the study seeks to overcome challenges associated with daily oral PrEP adherence and improve access to HIV prevention methods. Patients may benefit from a more effective and convenient way to prevent HIV transmission.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective and user-friendly method for HIV prevention, reducing the risk of transmission.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using nanoparticle technology for drug delivery, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston University (Charles River Campus)
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reinhard, Bjoern Markus — Boston University (Charles River Campus)
- Study coordinator: Reinhard, Bjoern Markus
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.