Using CD89+ NK Cells for New Treatments Against HIV
Harnessing CD89+ NK Cells for Novel Therapeutic Interventions Against HIV/SIV
This project explores how a specific type of immune cell, called CD89+ NK cells, might be used to develop new ways to fight HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11168807 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Current treatments for HIV can control the virus but don't offer a cure, making new approaches very important. Most efforts focus on T cells and B cells, but this work looks at natural killer (NK) cells, which are another part of your immune system. Our lab has found that a specific type of NK cell, called CD89+ NK cells, behaves differently and might be a key target. We believe that by understanding and potentially changing how CD89 works, we could unlock new ways for your body's own immune system to fight HIV.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to inform future treatments for individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
Not a fit: Patients not living with HIV/AIDS would not directly benefit from this specific research focus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new therapies that help the body's immune system better control or even eliminate HIV, moving closer to a cure.
How similar studies have performed: While current HIV treatments are effective, this approach of targeting CD89+ NK cells represents a novel and largely untested strategy for HIV intervention.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reeves, Roger Keith — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Reeves, Roger Keith
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.