Using CARD8 to eliminate HIV reservoirs

Harnessing the CARD8 Inflammasome for HIV Reservoir Elimination

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-11017007

This study is looking at a new way to help people with HIV by targeting and getting rid of hidden infected cells in the body, which could lead to a future where they can live without daily medication.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11017007 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel approach to eliminate HIV-1 reservoirs in the body, which are pools of infected cells that can reactivate the virus even after long-term treatment with antiretroviral therapy. The study focuses on the CARD8 inflammasome, a protein that can detect the HIV-1 protease, leading to the activation of a cell death process that targets these infected cells. By enhancing the body's ability to eliminate these reservoirs, the research aims to develop a treatment that could allow people living with HIV to achieve drug-free remission. Patients may be involved in trials that explore this innovative therapeutic strategy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV-1 who are currently on antiretroviral therapy and have a stable viral load.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those who have not responded to antiretroviral therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a breakthrough treatment that allows individuals with HIV to live without the need for lifelong antiretroviral therapy.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of targeting the CARD8 inflammasome is innovative, similar strategies aimed at eliminating HIV reservoirs have shown promise in preliminary studies, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, 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 SyndromeAcquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndromeacquired immunodeficiency syndrome clinical trial groupAcquired 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.