Understanding how HIV interacts with mucus in the vagina
Role of HIV glycan shield in mucus penetration
This study is looking at how the HIV-1 virus gets through the protective mucus in the vagina, which helps keep women safe from infection, and it aims to understand how this mucus works to trap the virus, especially for women in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Howard University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10516749 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how HIV-1, a virus that causes AIDS, penetrates the mucus layer in the vagina, which serves as a barrier to infection. The study focuses on the interactions between the virus and mucins, which are heavily glycosylated proteins in the mucus. By analyzing cervicovaginal lavage samples from women, the research aims to determine the conditions under which the mucus effectively traps the virus or fails to do so. This could provide insights into the factors influencing HIV transmission among women, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women living in Sub-Saharan Africa or African-American women in the US who are at risk of HIV infection.
Not a fit: Patients who are not women or those who are not at risk of HIV infection may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing HIV transmission in women.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this study is novel, previous research has shown that understanding mucosal barriers can be crucial in HIV prevention.
Where this research is happening
Washington, United States
- Howard University — Washington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chandran, Preethi Lourdes — Howard University
- Study coordinator: Chandran, Preethi Lourdes
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.