Understanding how certain immune cells control HIV without treatment

Characterizing ART-free NK cell-mediated control of HIV infection in people living with HIV

NIH-funded research J. David Gladstone Institutes · NIH-10671559

This study is looking at how some people with HIV can keep the virus in check without medication, focusing on special immune cells called Natural Killer (NK) cells, to help find new treatment options for everyone living with HIV.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJ. David Gladstone Institutes NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10671559 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how some individuals living with HIV can control the virus without antiretroviral therapy (ART). It focuses on a specific type of immune cell called Natural Killer (NK) cells, which may have unique properties that allow them to suppress HIV rebound after treatment is stopped. By analyzing samples from individuals known as post-treatment controllers (PTCs), the study aims to identify the characteristics and functions of NK cells that contribute to this control. The findings could provide insights into potential new therapies for HIV.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who have been identified as post-treatment controllers.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those who do not have the ability to control the virus after stopping ART may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing HIV without the need for continuous treatment.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding immune responses in HIV, but this specific focus on NK cells in post-treatment controllers 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.