Understanding how HIV hides in immune cells
Multi-omic dissection of the transcriptional, epigenetic, and proteomic signatures of cells infected with latent HIV
This study is looking at how HIV can hide in certain immune cells even when people are taking their medication, and by understanding these hidden cells better, we hope to find new ways to help get rid of the virus for good.
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-10877071 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the hidden reservoir of HIV within long-lived CD4 T cells that remain in the body even when patients are on effective antiretroviral therapy. Using a novel technique called PCR activated cell sorting (PACS), the study aims to analyze individual cells to uncover the genetic and molecular mechanisms that allow HIV to persist without causing active infection. By examining these cells at a single-cell level, the research seeks to identify unique properties that contribute to the virus's latency, which is a significant barrier to curing HIV. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new strategies for eliminating the latent HIV reservoir.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are on antiretroviral therapy and have achieved viral suppression.
Not a fit: Patients who are not on antiretroviral therapy or those with acute HIV infection may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in curing HIV by targeting and eliminating the latent HIV reservoir.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding HIV latency, but this approach using PACS is innovative and has not been widely tested.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Quintana, Francisco J. — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Quintana, Francisco J.
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.