Understanding HIV Cure Through Stem Cell Transplants
A nonhuman primate model of stem cell transplantation to understand determinants of post-transplant SIV clearance
This work explores how stem cell transplants, like those that cured the 'Berlin' and 'London' patients, could lead to a functional cure for HIV by eliminating the virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11117192 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are looking into how stem cell transplants, specifically those from donors lacking a certain protein called CCR5, can eliminate HIV from the body. This approach is inspired by two individuals, known as the 'Berlin Patient' and 'London Patient,' who were cured of HIV after receiving such transplants for leukemia. Our goal is to understand the exact mechanisms behind this cure using a nonhuman primate model. We are also exploring if a specific antibody, Leronlimab, can mimic the effects of a CCR5-deficient donor to help clear the virus.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work is for future patients living with HIV who might be candidates for advanced therapies like stem cell transplantation.
Not a fit: Patients not living with HIV or those not considering highly specialized treatments like stem cell transplantation would not directly benefit from this particular research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for a functional cure for HIV, potentially freeing patients from lifelong antiretroviral therapy.
How similar studies have performed: The successful cases of the 'Berlin Patient' and 'London Patient' provide strong evidence that stem cell transplantation from CCR5-deficient donors can cure HIV, making this a promising area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sacha, Jonah B. — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Sacha, Jonah 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.