Understanding how herpes simplex virus type 2 affects HIV infection
Official title: Mechanisms Underlying the HIV-HSV-2 Syndemic
Funded at Albert Einstein College of Medicine · NIH-11040322 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the herpes virus can affect the way HIV behaves in people who have both infections, and it aims to find new ways to help improve treatment for those living with both viruses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project start | February 20, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $794,526 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI134367-08 |
| Project ID | NIH-11040322 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are co-infected with HIV and HSV-2.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are solely infected with HIV or HSV-2 without the other virus may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) and HIV, focusing on how HSV-2 may enhance HIV replication in infected individuals. The study will analyze changes in immune cells, particularly CD4+ T cells, when exposed to HSV-2, using advanced techniques like RNA sequencing to identify significant transcriptional changes. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover potential targets for improving treatment strategies for patients co-infected with HIV and HSV-2.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients co-infected with HIV and HSV-2, potentially reducing HIV replication and enhancing patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that understanding the interactions between HSV-2 and HIV can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Herold, Betsy C. — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Herold, Betsy C.
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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.