Understanding how exposure to antigens affects the body's natural killer cells in fighting HIV
How antigen exposure shapes the subsequent NK cell response to HIV
This study is looking at how certain proteins from HIV affect the way our immune cells, called natural killer (NK) cells, respond to the virus, and it's for people interested in how we can improve vaccines to better fight HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Jackson Laboratory NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bar Harbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11054552 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to specific antigens influences the response of natural killer (NK) cells to HIV. By using advanced techniques like single-cell sequencing and flow cytometry, the study aims to identify different functional subsets of NK cells in both naïve and previously exposed individuals. The researchers will also assess how these subsets contribute to the body's ability to combat HIV through various laboratory tests. This work seeks to enhance our understanding of NK cell memory and its potential role in developing effective vaccines against HIV.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have been exposed to HIV antigens or are at risk of HIV infection.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for HIV or have never been exposed to HIV antigens may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccine strategies that harness the body's natural defenses against HIV.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding NK cell responses to other infections, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for HIV as well.
Where this research is happening
Bar Harbor, United States
- Jackson Laboratory — Bar Harbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Paust, Silke — Jackson Laboratory
- Study coordinator: Paust, Silke
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.