Understanding how HIV affects oral cells and their risk for HPV infection

Epigenetics of dysfunctional oral epithelium in people living with HIV and risk for HPV infection

['FUNDING_R21'] · CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10880690

This study is looking at how the mouth cells of people living with HIV might not work as well, which could make them more likely to get HPV, and it aims to find out how these cells differ from those of healthy people.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10880690 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how the oral epithelial cells of people living with HIV (PLWH) may become dysfunctional, potentially increasing their risk for HPV infection. The team will collect oral mucosal cells from PLWH using a non-invasive method and analyze their genomic and epigenomic characteristics. By comparing these cells to those from healthy individuals, the researchers aim to understand the differences in susceptibility to HPV infection. This study combines expertise in HIV and HPV virology, cell biology, and bioinformatics to explore these important health issues.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who may be experiencing oral health issues.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or do not have oral health complications may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of oral health complications in people living with HIV, potentially reducing their risk of HPV infection.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have shown that understanding the epigenetic factors in viral infections can lead to significant insights and advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

CLEVELAND, 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.