Using engineered stem cells to trap and remove HIV from the body
"Corral and Kill" strategy for HIV eradication using MSC in an SIV model
This research explores using modified mesenchymal stem cells to trap hidden HIV and deliver treatments that could eliminate infected cells for people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11247497 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you have HIV, this project uses engineered mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in a monkey (SIV) model to find and contain virus hiding in the body and then deliver antiviral or immune-activating agents to kill those infected cells. The researchers plan to program MSCs to home to viral reservoir sites and carry antibody-based or other payloads to trigger an antiviral response. Experiments are being done in animals now to test safety and whether the approach can reduce or clear persistent virus. Positive results would be needed before any human trials, and this grant itself does not enroll patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with HIV—particularly those with suppressed viral load on antiretroviral therapy and who are medically stable—could be candidates for future human trials of this strategy.
Not a fit: Because this is preclinical animal research, people seeking immediate treatment changes will not directly benefit from these activities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could reduce or eliminate hidden HIV reservoirs and bring the field closer to a cure or long-term remission.
How similar studies have performed: Related cell- and antibody-based approaches have shown promise in animal models and some early human work, but delivering a 'corral and kill' payload with MSCs is a novel and experimental tactic.
Where this research is happening
Davis, United States
- University of California at Davis — Davis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dandekar, Satya — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Dandekar, Satya
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.