Understanding how HIV spreads between cells
Official title: Gaining a clear view of HIV cell-cell spread using APEX proximity labeling
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11118299 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how HIV spreads between cells and aims to understand the tiny changes that happen during this process, which could help develop better treatments for people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $515,282 |
| NIH project number | 1R56AI186612-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11118299 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are interested in understanding the biological mechanisms of the virus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who are not engaged in HIV-related research may not benefit from this study.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which HIV spreads from one infected cell to another through a specialized structure known as the virological synapse. Using a novel flow cytometry assay, researchers will quantify and purify pairs of infected and target cells to analyze how proteins and RNAs are affected during this process. The study employs advanced techniques involving ascorbate peroxidase (APEX) to label and track molecular interactions in real-time, providing insights into the cellular changes that occur during HIV transmission. By identifying key factors involved in this process, the research aims to enhance our understanding of HIV biology and potentially inform new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing HIV transmission and developing more effective treatments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding viral transmission mechanisms, but this specific approach using APEX proximity labeling is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tilton, John Christian — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Tilton, John Christian
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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.