Understanding how HIV-1 infections can be prevented using antibodies in sub-Saharan Africa
Official title: Antigenic and virological traits of HIV-1 breakthrough infections in the VRC01 antibody-mediated prevention Phase 2b trial in sub-Saharan Africa
Funded at University of Cape Town · NIH-10840452 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how well an antibody called VRC01 can help prevent HIV-1 infections in people in sub-Saharan Africa, and it aims to understand how different virus strains react to it, which could lead to better ways to protect against HIV in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cape Town NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rondebosch, South Africa) |
| Project start | April 17, 2020 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $327,638 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI152115-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10840452 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk of HIV-1 infection living in sub-Saharan Africa.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already HIV-positive or those who do not reside in sub-Saharan Africa may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of a specific antibody, VRC01, in preventing HIV-1 infections in sub-Saharan Africa. It aims to analyze how different strains of the virus respond to this antibody and what levels of the antibody are necessary for protection. By studying breakthrough infections, the research will provide insights into the genetic diversity of HIV and how it affects vaccine efficacy. The findings could help improve future HIV prevention strategies and clinical trials.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective HIV prevention methods, potentially reducing the incidence of new infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using broadly neutralizing antibodies for HIV prevention, indicating that this approach has potential based on earlier successes.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Cape Town
Rondebosch, South Africa Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Williamson, Carolyn — University of Cape Town
- Study coordinator: Williamson, Carolyn
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.