Understanding how immune cells recognize and respond to SIV infection
Official title: KIR and MHC Class I Immunogenetics in SIV Infection
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11001913 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called natural killer (NK) cells help fight a virus similar to HIV, using monkeys to see how different genes affect their ability to respond to the virus, with the hope of finding new ways to boost our immune defenses against infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | December 18, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $731,939 |
| NIH project number | 5R37AI095098-13 |
| Project ID | NIH-11001913 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV or at high risk of HIV infection, particularly those interested in novel immunotherapy approaches.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV or SIV, or those who do not have a genetic predisposition affecting NK cell function, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of natural killer (NK) cells in fighting SIV, a virus similar to HIV, by examining how specific receptors on these immune cells interact with viral proteins. The study will utilize animal models, particularly rhesus macaques, to explore the genetic variations in NK cell receptors and their impact on the immune response to SIV. By isolating antibodies and studying receptor interactions, the research aims to enhance our understanding of how NK cells can be harnessed for therapeutic purposes against viral infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for patients with HIV/SIV by enhancing the effectiveness of NK cell-based treatments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding NK cell interactions with viral infections, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Evans, David T — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Evans, David T
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.