Understanding how early HIV treatment affects infants exposed in the womb

Virologic Determinants of Very Early Antiretroviral Treatment Responses of Infants with in utero HIV-1

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11144062

This study is looking at how starting HIV treatment very early can help babies who were exposed to the virus before birth, and it aims to find out what helps some of these babies control the virus better without needing ongoing treatment.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11144062 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of very early antiretroviral therapy (ART) on infants who were exposed to HIV-1 in utero. By analyzing biological samples from participants in a previous clinical trial, the study aims to identify factors that contribute to long-term control of the virus without ongoing treatment. The researchers will examine viral load, HIV-1 DNA levels, and differences based on biological sex to better understand how these elements influence treatment outcomes. This approach combines laboratory assays with clinical data to uncover the virologic determinants of successful ART responses in neonates.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include infants who were exposed to HIV-1 in utero and are starting antiretroviral therapy.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infants or who were not exposed to HIV-1 in utero may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies that allow some infants to control HIV-1 without the need for lifelong antiretroviral therapy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with early ART in neonates, indicating potential for significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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 2026-06-13 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.