Using mRNA gene therapy to find a cure for HIV
A multipronged, mRNA gene therapy approach to HIV cure
This study is exploring a new way to help people with HIV by using mRNA therapy to wake up the hidden virus and help the body get rid of it, making treatment easier and more effective.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10948500 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to curing HIV by utilizing mRNA gene therapy. It aims to address the challenges of HIV latency, where the virus hides from the immune system, by combining strategies to reactivate the virus and eliminate it. The therapy involves delivering mRNA that encodes specific genes in lipid nanoparticles, which can be engineered to target particular immune cells. This method is designed to be efficient, cost-effective, and flexible, potentially overcoming previous limitations in HIV treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who have not responded adequately to current antiretroviral therapies.
Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who have advanced AIDS may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a functional cure for HIV, significantly improving the quality of life for patients living with the virus.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been promising advancements in HIV treatment, this specific approach using mRNA gene therapy is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in this context.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kreider, Edward — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Kreider, Edward
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.