Understanding how certain immune cells respond to HIV in high-risk individuals
Official title: Origins and dynamics of HIV gp120 specific B cell memory in HIV negative high-risk individuals
Funded at University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11013181 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called B cells respond in people who are at high risk for HIV but don’t have the virus yet, to see if we can help their bodies create a stronger defense against HIV through vaccines.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $667,848 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI179584-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11013181 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are HIV negative individuals who are considered at high risk for HIV acquisition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already HIV positive or those who do not fall into the high-risk category may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the immune response of B cells, which are crucial for producing antibodies against HIV, in individuals who are at high risk for HIV infection but are currently HIV negative. The study focuses on the development of specific memory B cells that can recognize the HIV gp120 protein, which is essential for the virus's ability to infect cells. By analyzing the characteristics of these B cells before any exposure to HIV, the research aims to identify how a strong immune response can be generated, potentially leading to effective vaccine strategies. Participants will undergo blood tests to evaluate their B cell populations and antibody responses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective HIV vaccines that better prepare the immune system to fight the virus.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding B cell responses to HIV, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kobie, James J — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Kobie, James J
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.