Using IL-15 immunotherapy to target HIV in the brain

Impact of IL-15 immunotherapy on tissue-specific CD8 T cells to reduce the CNS HIV reservoir seeding and persistence

NIH-funded research Henry M. Jackson Fdn for the Adv Mil/med · NIH-11125879

This study is looking at a new treatment that uses IL-15 to boost the immune system's CD8 T cells, which help fight HIV in the brain, to see if it can lower HIV levels safely while keeping an eye on any changes in brain inflammation.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionHenry M. Jackson Fdn for the Adv Mil/med NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Bethesda, United States)
Project IDNIH-11125879 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how IL-15 immunotherapy can enhance the immune response of CD8 T cells to reduce HIV reservoirs in the central nervous system (CNS). The approach involves using a novel IL-15 super-agonist to activate and expand these T cells, which are crucial for controlling HIV. By analyzing the behavior of these cells in cerebrospinal fluid, the research aims to determine if this therapy can effectively lower HIV levels in the brain without causing harm. Patients may be monitored for changes in neuroinflammation and HIV persistence following treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV, particularly those who have initiated antiretroviral therapy during acute infection.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those who have advanced stages of HIV with significant neurological impairment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for HIV that target and reduce viral reservoirs in the brain.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using immunotherapy to enhance T cell responses against HIV, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Bethesda, 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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virusacquired immunodeficiency syndrome clinical trial groupAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virusacute infectionanti-cancer therapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.