Understanding how HIV-1 interacts with host cells during infection

Project 2. Immune evasion, trafficking, and nuclear import

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11078371

This study is looking at how the HIV-1 virus gets into our cells and hides from our immune system, which could help find better ways to prevent or treat HIV.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11078371 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which the HIV-1 virus enters and integrates into host cells, focusing on the role of the virus's capsid. The project aims to uncover how the capsid interacts with host immune proteins and navigates through cellular structures to reach the nucleus. By using advanced techniques like CryoEM and NMR, the researchers will provide detailed insights into the virus's behavior and its evasion of the immune system. This knowledge could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating HIV infection.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are seeking new treatment options or have not responded well to existing therapies.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who have advanced AIDS with significant immune system damage may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that enhance the immune response against HIV and improve treatment outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding viral mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into HIV treatment.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
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.