Understanding HIV's Hidden State Through RNA Changes
The role of RNA m6A modification in the regulation of HIV latency and reactivation
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11311423
This research aims to understand how a specific change in RNA, called m6A modification, helps HIV hide in the body and how it might be reactivated in patients receiving treatment.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11311423 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our team is exploring how a common RNA change, called m6A modification, affects HIV's ability to stay hidden in the body, even when patients are on antiretroviral therapy. We are developing a new, highly sensitive test to measure these m6A changes in HIV from patient samples. This test will help us see how HIV RNA changes when the virus is latent and when it reactivates. By understanding these processes, we hope to find new ways to target and eliminate the hidden virus.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is particularly relevant for patients living with HIV who are currently on antiretroviral therapy and have a suppressed viral load.
Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those not on antiretroviral therapy would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for reactivating and clearing the hidden HIV virus, potentially moving closer to a cure for HIV.
How similar studies have performed: While m6A modification is known to be important in early HIV infection, its specific role in HIV latency and reactivation in treated patients is a new area of focus, and this project is developing a novel assay for this purpose.
Where this research is happening
CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES
- CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY — CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KARN, JONATHAN — CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: KARN, JONATHAN
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.
Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus