Understanding how HIV-1 reservoir cells survive and evolve in the body
Selection and Evolution of HIV-1 reservoir cells in blood and tissues
This study is looking at the tiny number of HIV-infected cells that stick around in the body even when treatment is working well, and it’s for people living with HIV who want to help researchers understand why some of these cells survive so we can find better ways to get rid of them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10904610 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the small population of HIV-1-infected CD4 T cells that persist in the body despite effective antiretroviral therapy. By utilizing advanced molecular techniques, the study aims to profile the evolution of these reservoir cells over time in both blood and tissues. The goal is to understand the mechanisms that allow some of these cells to survive while others are eliminated, which could be crucial for developing strategies to target them effectively. Patients involved in this research will contribute samples that help uncover the complexities of HIV-1 persistence.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are individuals diagnosed with HIV-1 who have started antiretroviral therapy during acute infection.
Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HIV-1 or those who have not received early antiretroviral treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for eliminating HIV-1 from the body and preventing viral rebound.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding HIV-1 reservoirs, but this approach utilizing advanced single-cell analysis is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lichterfeld, Mathias — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Lichterfeld, Mathias
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 below.