Understanding immune changes in the female genital tract for women with HIV
T-cell activation and exhaustion in the HIV-positive female genital tract
This work looks at how the immune system changes in the female genital tract of women living with HIV, even when they are on treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11162475 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that HIV can cause ongoing immune system activity throughout the body, even when the virus is controlled by medication. This project focuses specifically on understanding these immune changes within the female genital tract, an area that has not been as thoroughly explored as other parts of the body. By examining how immune cells behave and what inflammatory signals are present, we hope to learn more about why immune activation continues in this specific area. This knowledge is important because women make up a large portion of people living with HIV, and their immune responses may differ from men.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for women living with HIV, particularly those interested in contributing to a deeper understanding of the disease's impact on the female genital tract.
Not a fit: Patients not living with HIV or those not interested in research focused on the female genital tract may not directly benefit from this specific study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of HIV's long-term effects in women, potentially guiding new treatments to improve their health and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Initial studies have suggested elevated immune activation in the female genital tract of women with HIV, indicating this research builds upon existing observations to provide a more detailed understanding.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcclelland, Raymond Scott — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Mcclelland, Raymond Scott
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.