Understanding how HIV-1 proteins change shape to help the virus enter cells

Dissecting the Conformational Flexibility of HIV-1 Envelope Glycoproteins

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA · NIH-11091580

This study is looking at the different shapes of a key part of the HIV virus that helps it infect cells, with the goal of finding better ways to create vaccines and treatments that can stop the virus in its tracks.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MINNEAPOLIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11091580 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the different shapes that HIV-1 envelope glycoproteins can take, which are crucial for the virus to infect host cells. By examining how these proteins transition between closed and open forms, the study aims to improve the design of vaccines and therapies that can effectively neutralize the virus. The researchers will analyze various strains of HIV-1 to understand the diversity in these protein shapes and how they can be targeted by antibodies. This work could lead to more effective treatments and preventive measures against HIV.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV-1 or those at high risk of HIV infection.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HIV or who do not have a risk of exposure to the virus may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective vaccines and antibody therapies against HIV-1.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding HIV-1 protein structures, indicating that this approach could yield significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

MINNEAPOLIS, 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.