Understanding how blood cells called platelets help HIV hide in the brain
Revealing the role of platelets in promoting HIV reservoir seeding and persistence in the CNS-resident myeloid cells
This work explores how platelets might help HIV stay hidden in the brain, even with medication, to find new ways to get rid of the virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | George Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11143953 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Even with powerful anti-HIV medicines, the virus can hide in certain parts of the body, like the brain, making a complete cure difficult. This project looks at how tiny blood cells called platelets might play a role in helping HIV create these hidden spots, known as viral reservoirs. By understanding this process, we hope to find new ways to prevent the virus from hiding in the brain. The goal is to develop treatments that could reduce or eliminate these hidden virus reservoirs, bringing us closer to a cure for HIV.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This basic science research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit individuals living with HIV, particularly those concerned about viral reservoirs in the central nervous system.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV or those whose viral reservoirs are not a primary concern for their treatment may not directly benefit from this specific research focus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help reduce or eliminate hidden HIV in the brain, potentially moving closer to a cure for people living with HIV.
How similar studies have performed: While anti-retroviral therapies have been highly successful in suppressing HIV, the challenge of eradicating viral reservoirs remains, making this a novel approach to a persistent problem.
Where this research is happening
Washington, United States
- George Washington University — Washington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maggirwar, Sanjay B. — George Washington University
- Study coordinator: Maggirwar, Sanjay 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.