Understanding how HIV-1 Nef enhances the virus's ability to infect cells

Basis of Serinc-Independent Enhancement of Infectivity by HIV-1Nef

['FUNDING_R21'] · VETERANS MEDICAL RESEARCH FDN/SAN DIEGO · NIH-11187607

This study is looking at how a specific protein called Nef helps the HIV virus become more infectious, even when some usual blockers aren't around, and it's aimed at finding new ways to understand and fight HIV.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVETERANS MEDICAL RESEARCH FDN/SAN DIEGO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11187607 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the HIV-1 Nef protein in increasing the infectivity of the virus, even in the absence of certain known inhibitors. The study aims to identify unknown proteins or pathways that Nef interacts with to enhance viral replication and infectivity. Using advanced techniques like proximity-proteomics, researchers will explore the mechanisms behind Nef's function, which could lead to new insights into HIV biology. This research is particularly focused on understanding how Nef operates independently of the CD4 receptor and SERINC proteins.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who may benefit from improved treatment strategies.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who have already achieved viral suppression may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic targets for treating HIV infections.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been significant research on HIV-1 Nef, this approach of identifying unknown pathways is innovative and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

SAN DIEGO, 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.