Understanding how the body senses cell-free DNA to control HIV
Official title: Innate Sensing of Cell-Free DNA and the Interferon-Mediated Control of HIV In Vivo
Funded at Vitalant · NIH-11062544 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how bits of DNA in the blood can affect the body's response to HIV and help us understand when the virus might come back after stopping treatment, with the hope of finding better ways to manage HIV and possibly even cure it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vitalant NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Scottsdale, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $359,333 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI172754-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11062544 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are currently on antiretroviral therapy and may be considering treatment interruption.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not living with HIV or those who are not on antiretroviral therapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of cell-free DNA in the immune response to HIV infection. It aims to identify how this DNA influences the timing of HIV rebound after stopping antiretroviral therapy. By analyzing plasma samples from HIV-infected individuals, the study seeks to uncover molecular factors that could help predict and manage HIV persistence. The ultimate goal is to develop strategies that may lead to a functional cure for HIV.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for managing HIV and potentially achieving long-term remission without continuous treatment.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of immune factors in HIV management, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
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Vitalant
Scottsdale, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pillai, Satish Kumar — Vitalant
- Study coordinator: Pillai, Satish Kumar
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.