Using carbon nanotubes to deliver mRNA for an HIV vaccine

Carbon Nanotube Enabled Delivery of mRNA for an HIV Vaccine Candidate

NIH-funded research Luna Labs USA, LLC · NIH-10951006

This study is testing a new type of HIV vaccine that uses tiny carbon tubes to help deliver important instructions to your immune system, with the hope of creating a stronger defense against the virus and ultimately reducing the spread of HIV.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLuna Labs USA, LLC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charlottesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10951006 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel vaccine for HIV-1 by utilizing carbon nanotubes to effectively deliver mRNA. The approach aims to stimulate the immune system to produce broadly neutralizing antibodies and enhance CD8+ T cell responses, which are crucial for controlling HIV infection. By combining advanced delivery systems with optimized vaccine components, the project seeks to create a more effective immunization strategy against HIV. Patients may benefit from this innovative approach if it leads to a successful vaccine that reduces HIV transmission.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk of HIV infection or those living with HIV who may benefit from improved vaccination strategies.

Not a fit: Patients who are already effectively managing their HIV with existing treatments may not see additional benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a vaccine that significantly lowers the rate of new HIV infections.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been numerous attempts to develop an HIV vaccine, this approach using carbon nanotubes for mRNA delivery is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in previous studies.

Where this research is happening

Charlottesville, 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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.