Understanding lung cells in people with HIV to fight the virus and inflammation
Investigating alveolar macrophages in PLWH as targets for HIV persistence, residual inflammation and immune activation
This project looks at special lung cells called alveolar macrophages in people living with HIV to understand why the virus stays in the body and causes ongoing inflammation, even with treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11141620 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
HIV can hide in the body and cause inflammation, even when people are on effective medication. While many focus on immune cells called T cells, this project explores the role of lung cells, specifically alveolar macrophages, as places where HIV might persist. We want to understand how these lung cells contribute to ongoing inflammation and why they might not respond well to common lung infections in people with HIV. By studying these cells, we hope to find new ways to target the virus and reduce inflammation in the lungs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant to people living with HIV who are currently on antiretroviral therapy and experience persistent inflammation or are susceptible to lung infections.
Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those whose HIV is fully suppressed without any signs of residual inflammation or co-infections may not directly benefit from this specific line of inquiry.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies to eliminate HIV from the body, reduce chronic inflammation, and better protect people with HIV from lung infections.
How similar studies have performed: While previous studies have focused on T cells, growing evidence supports the role of macrophages as HIV reservoirs, making this a promising area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rengarajan, Jyothi — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Rengarajan, Jyothi
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.