Understanding and targeting the HIV reservoir in the gut

Multiomics characterization, induction, and elimination of the HIV gut reservoir

NIH-funded research J. David Gladstone Institutes · NIH-11086092

This study is looking at the hidden HIV virus in the gut of both women and men to understand how it stays there and to find new ways to help eliminate it, with the hope of discovering better treatments for people living with HIV.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJ. David Gladstone Institutes NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-11086092 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the HIV reservoir located in the gut, which is believed to hold 98% of the virus in people living with HIV. By recruiting both pre- and post-menopausal women and clinically-matched men, the study aims to collect gut biopsy and blood samples to analyze the cellular mechanisms that allow HIV to persist. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques to characterize the cells at a single-cell level and explore new treatment strategies that could help eliminate the virus. The goal is to identify biomarkers and test combinations of latency-reversal agents to develop effective HIV cure strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are virally-suppressed individuals living with HIV, including both pre- and post-menopausal women and clinically-matched men.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those who are not virally suppressed may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that effectively eliminate the HIV reservoir, potentially curing individuals living with HIV.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting HIV reservoirs, but this specific approach focusing on the gut and hormonal influences is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.