Understanding how a specific gene affects HIV infection
Official title: Characterization of a new CXCR4-specific restriction factor
Funded at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center · NIH-11007819 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new gene called SLC35A2 to see how it affects the way HIV spreads and grows in certain immune cells, which could help us understand how the body deals with different types of the virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $237,600 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI186807-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11007819 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV, particularly those with varying strains of the virus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV or those with only R5 virus strains may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a newly identified gene, SLC35A2, in regulating HIV infection, particularly focusing on how it affects the replication of different strains of the virus in CD4+ T cells. The study will explore the gene's impact on R5 and X4 viruses, which are crucial in the progression of HIV infection. By examining primary mucosal CD4+ T cells, the research aims to uncover the biological mechanisms that influence HIV transmission and infection dynamics. This could lead to new insights into how the body responds to different HIV strains.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating HIV infections.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific gene SLC35A2 is newly identified, similar research approaches have shown promise in understanding HIV transmission dynamics.
Where this research is happening
-
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Overbaugh, Julie M. — Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Overbaugh, Julie M.
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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.