Transforming B cells to fight HIV
Official title: In vivo transformation of chimeric antigen receptor B cells for a functional cure of HIV
Funded at Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-10884158 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help the immune system fight HIV by changing certain parts of B cells, which make antibodies, so they can better target and neutralize the virus, potentially leading to a long-lasting solution for people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 7, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $824,985 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI174277-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10884158 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are seeking innovative treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who have advanced AIDS may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new method to edit the receptors of B cells, which are crucial components of the immune system, to produce antibodies that can neutralize HIV. By using advanced techniques like CRISPR/Cas, researchers aim to replace specific parts of the B cell receptors with genes that encode broadly neutralizing antibodies against HIV. These modified B cells, referred to as CAR B cells, can replicate and adapt in the body, potentially providing a long-lasting defense against the virus. This approach aims to create a functional cure for HIV by enabling the immune system to respond effectively to the virus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a functional cure for HIV, allowing patients to control the virus without ongoing treatment.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of editing B cells is innovative, similar techniques have shown promise in other areas of immunotherapy, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Farzan, Michael R. — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Farzan, Michael R.
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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.