Understanding how HIV-1 is transmitted in women

Elucidating mechanisms of HIV-1 mucosal transmission

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · BIRMINGHAM VA MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11098500

This study is looking at how HIV spreads in women by examining how the virus interacts with certain immune cells right after exposure, which could help create better prevention methods for women.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBIRMINGHAM VA MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11098500 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms of HIV-1 transmission specifically in the female genital tract. By using non-human primate models, the study aims to identify how the virus interacts with immune cells shortly after exposure. The focus is on understanding the role of CD4 T cells and macrophages in the early stages of infection, which could lead to improved prevention strategies for women. The findings could provide critical insights into the biology of HIV transmission and inform the development of effective therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women at risk of HIV-1 infection, particularly those in military or high-exposure environments.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk of HIV-1 infection or those who are already HIV-positive may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention methods for HIV-1 transmission in women, ultimately reducing infection rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding HIV transmission mechanisms, but this specific focus on female mucosal transmission is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

BIRMINGHAM, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.