Understanding how to activate hidden HIV in children infected at birth
Deciphering Mechanisms of HIV Latency Reversal in Perinatal Infections
This study is looking into why HIV hides in the bodies of babies born with the virus and why it's harder to treat them than adults, with the goal of finding better ways to help these children get rid of the virus for good.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10686028 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind HIV latency, particularly in children who were infected at birth. It aims to understand why the latent HIV reservoir in these children is more resistant to treatment compared to adults. By studying the immune environment and the characteristics of the latent virus, the research seeks to identify effective strategies to activate and eliminate the virus. The findings could lead to improved clinical trials for latency reversal agents specifically designed for perinatally-infected children.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and young adults who were perinatally infected with HIV.
Not a fit: Patients who are adults infected with HIV later in life may not benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that allow children with HIV to achieve remission without ongoing antiretroviral therapy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in activating latent HIV in adults, but this approach in perinatally-infected children is relatively novel and requires further exploration.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Persaud, Deborah — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Persaud, Deborah
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.