Understanding severe COVID-19 in people with HIV
Mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis during HIV/SIV infection
This research explores why COVID-19 can be more severe for individuals living with HIV, looking at how the immune system and gut bacteria play a role.
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-11141797 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that people with HIV face a higher risk of severe COVID-19, hospitalization, and even death, even after vaccination. This project aims to understand the specific reasons behind this increased risk by looking at how the immune system responds to SARS-CoV-2 infection when someone also has HIV. We will also explore the connection between the bacteria in the gut and lungs and how they might influence the severity of COVID-19 in these individuals. Our goal is to uncover factors that drive severe illness so we can better protect immunocompromised patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research focuses on understanding COVID-19 in individuals who are also living with HIV.
Not a fit: Patients without HIV or those not experiencing severe COVID-19 may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat severe COVID-19 in people living with HIV by targeting specific immune responses or microbial imbalances.
How similar studies have performed: While the link between HIV and severe COVID-19 is known, this specific investigation into immune and microbial mechanisms is urgently needed and represents a novel approach to understanding this complex interaction.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'connor, Megan a — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: O'connor, Megan a
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.