Using CRISPR technology to silence HIV
Official title: A CRISP(e)R way to silence HIV
Funded at Florida International University · NIH-11001236 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to use gene editing to help people with HIV by finding better ways to target and silence the virus in the body, with the hope of leading to a complete cure or long-lasting remission.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Florida International University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Miami, United States) |
| Project start | December 14, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $342,685 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI174269-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11001236 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV, particularly those who are older and may have comorbid conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who are not eligible for gene therapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology to target and silence HIV in infected individuals. It focuses on the challenges of delivering the gene therapy effectively to HIV reservoirs in the body while minimizing off-target effects. The study aims to explore how to exhaust latent viral reservoirs, potentially leading to a complete cure or remission of HIV. By understanding the interactions between HIV and cellular factors, the research seeks to develop a more effective treatment strategy for HIV patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that effectively eradicate HIV from the body, improving the health and longevity of patients living with the virus.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using CRISPR technology for gene editing in various contexts, but its application specifically for HIV is still being explored and is considered a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Florida International University
Miami, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Unwalla, Hoshang Jehangir — Florida International University
- Study coordinator: Unwalla, Hoshang Jehangir
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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.