Understanding how host cell factors control HIV latency

Regulation of HIV Latency by Host Cell Transcriptional and Epigenetic Networks

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11118353

This study is looking at how HIV can hide in certain immune cells even when people are on treatment, and it aims to find new ways to wake up the virus so that better treatments can be developed for those living with HIV.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-11118353 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which HIV can remain dormant in CD4 T cells despite antiretroviral therapy. It focuses on the transcriptional and epigenetic networks that regulate HIV expression and maintain its latent state. By using advanced techniques like CRISPR screening, the study aims to identify new combinations of gene knockouts and small molecule inhibitors that could effectively reactivate latent HIV. This could lead to more effective treatments for individuals living with HIV.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are currently on antiretroviral therapy and have a well-controlled viral load.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those who have not been on antiretroviral therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for achieving a functional cure for HIV, allowing patients to stop antiretroviral therapy without experiencing viral rebound.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting HIV latency through various approaches, but this study aims to explore novel combinations that have not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, 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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.