Using natural killer cells to target and reduce HIV reservoirs

Harnessing adaptive NK cell transfer to deplete viral reservoirs

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11060952

This study is exploring a new way to help people with HIV by using special immune cells called natural killer (NK) cells to find and destroy HIV-infected cells, which could lead to better treatments for managing the virus.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11060952 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how natural killer (NK) cells can be harnessed to effectively target and eliminate HIV-infected cells. By activating these immune cells and transferring them into patients, the study aims to enhance the body's ability to recognize and destroy cells harboring the virus. The approach involves understanding the interactions between NK cell receptors and viral peptides, which could lead to innovative therapies for HIV. Patients may benefit from a potential new treatment that could reduce viral loads and improve immune responses.

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.

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

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a groundbreaking therapy that significantly reduces HIV reservoirs in patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using NK cell therapies for targeting viral infections, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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 Virusanti-cancer immunotherapy
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.