Using specific immune cells to develop new treatments for HIV
Official title: Harnessing CD89+ NK Cells for Novel Therapeutic Interventions Against HIV/SIV
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10937151 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special type of immune cell called CD89+ natural killer cells to see how they help fight HIV, with the hope of finding new ways to improve treatment for people living with the virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | August 13, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $217,350 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI184422-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10937151 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are seeking new treatment options beyond standard antiretroviral therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who are not responsive to immune-based therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of CD89+ natural killer (NK) cells in the immune response to HIV infection. By examining how these cells function and their potential as a therapeutic target, the study aims to uncover new strategies for treating HIV. The researchers will analyze samples from both humans and nonhuman primates to understand the unique characteristics of CD89+ NK cells and their interactions within the immune system. This approach may lead to innovative interventions that enhance the body's ability to combat HIV.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve the immune response against HIV, potentially offering better management or even a cure for the infection.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of targeting NK cells is relatively novel, preliminary research has shown promising results in understanding their role in HIV infection.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reeves, Roger Keith — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Reeves, Roger Keith
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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.