Understanding how HIV-1 RNA is regulated to improve treatment options
Official title: Epigenetic modification of HIV-1 Cap
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11014754 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific change in the HIV virus affects its ability to replicate and interact with the immune system, with the goal of finding new treatment options for people living with HIV who are on medication but still have ongoing immune issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | August 14, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $696,828 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI184293-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11014754 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living with HIV who are currently on antiretroviral therapy but still experience immune system challenges.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not living with HIV or those who have achieved complete viral suppression without any immune activation issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind HIV-1 RNA regulation, particularly focusing on the hypermethylation of the RNA cap, which affects how the virus replicates and interacts with the immune system. By exploring the relationship between viral RNA and host immune responses, the study aims to uncover new strategies for treating HIV, especially for patients who are on antiretroviral therapy but still experience chronic immune activation. The research employs advanced techniques such as cryo-electron microscopy to visualize these interactions at a molecular level, potentially leading to the development of new therapeutic agents.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for HIV that reduce chronic immune activation and improve patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting viral RNA regulation, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in HIV treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Boris-Lawrie, Kathleen a. — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Boris-Lawrie, Kathleen a.
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.