Using modified stem cells to target and eliminate HIV infection
Official title: Hematopoietic Stem/Progenitor Cell-Based Chimeric Antigen Receptor Gene Therapy for HIV Infection
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11055233 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to treat HIV by using your own blood cells to help fight the virus, making it easier and safer than traditional treatments, with the hope of achieving long-lasting health without the virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | December 6, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $343,744 |
| NIH project number | 1R34AI188541-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11055233 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are seeking alternative treatment options beyond traditional antiretroviral therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who have contraindications for stem cell therapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to treating HIV by modifying a patient's own hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) to resist HIV infection and target infected cells for elimination. The method involves creating a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) that directs these modified cells to specifically attack HIV. By using a more targeted gene therapy approach, the research aims to reduce the toxicities associated with traditional stem cell transplants and improve the chances of a functional cure for HIV. Patients may benefit from a less invasive treatment that could potentially lead to long-term remission from the virus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a functional cure for HIV, significantly improving the quality of life for patients living with the virus.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using stem cell-based therapies for HIV, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kitchen, Scott G — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Kitchen, Scott G
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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.