Understanding why HIV-infected cells resist immune attack

Mechanisms of CTL Resistance in HIV Reservoirs

['FUNDING_R01'] · WEILL MEDICAL COLL OF CORNELL UNIV · NIH-10888219

This study is looking at how HIV-infected cells manage to hide from the immune system, especially from the cells that are supposed to destroy them, and it hopes to find new ways to help people with HIV get better treatment and possibly even a cure.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWEILL MEDICAL COLL OF CORNELL UNIV (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10888219 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which HIV-infected cells evade destruction by the immune system, particularly focusing on cytotoxic T-cells (CTL). The study aims to explore how these cells can remain hidden and resistant to immune responses, even when treatments attempt to activate them. By identifying the barriers to effective immune response, the research seeks to develop new strategies that could potentially lead to a cure or long-term remission of HIV infection. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved therapies and better management of HIV.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living with HIV who have challenges with medication adherence or who are seeking alternative treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those who have already achieved viral suppression and are satisfied with their current treatment regimen may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that either cure HIV or allow patients to maintain undetectable viral levels without continuous medication.

How similar studies have performed: While the 'kick & kill' approach has shown promise in laboratory settings, it has not yet proven effective in clinical trials, indicating that this research is exploring a critical and novel area.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.