Using CARD8 to eliminate HIV reservoirs
Official title: Harnessing the CARD8 Inflammasome for HIV Reservoir Elimination
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11017007 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | March 10, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $797,024 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI176594-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11017007 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV-1 who are currently on antiretroviral therapy and have a stable viral load.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not living with HIV or those who have not responded to antiretroviral therapy may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shan, Liang — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Shan, Liang
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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.