Using engineered T cells to target and eliminate HIV-infected cells while producing antibodies

CAR T CELLS ENGINEERED TO KILL HIV-INFECTED CELLS WHILE SECRETING BROADLY NEUTRALIZING ANTIBODIES

['FUNDING_R01'] · SCINTILLON INSTITUTE FOR PHOTOBIOLOGY · NIH-10791817

This study is testing a new way to help people with HIV by using specially designed T cells that can find and kill HIV-infected cells while also producing antibodies to fight different strains of the virus, with the hope of creating a long-lasting treatment that could lead to a cure.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSCINTILLON INSTITUTE FOR PHOTOBIOLOGY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10791817 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel approach to eliminate HIV-infected cells in the body using specially engineered T cells known as CAR T cells. These cells are designed to not only kill the infected cells but also secrete broadly neutralizing antibodies that can combat various strains of HIV. The study aims to create a self-sustaining treatment that continuously targets and destroys newly activated HIV reservoirs, potentially leading to a functional cure for HIV. By combining advanced CAR designs with effective antibodies, the research seeks to improve the efficacy of current HIV treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who have not responded adequately to existing treatments or are seeking new therapeutic options.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who have advanced AIDS with significant immune system damage may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a groundbreaking treatment that effectively controls and potentially cures HIV infection.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using CAR T cells has shown promise in other areas of cancer treatment, its application in HIV is still largely novel and untested.

Where this research is happening

SAN DIEGO, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.