Breakthrough in HIV Treatment

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University, in collaboration with the University of Pittsburgh, have made a significant breakthrough in HIV treatment. They have demonstrated that NK (Natural Killer) cells, which are specialized immune cells targeting virus-infected and tumor cells, can be enhanced to more effectively combat HIV infections.

More than 30 million individuals with HIV currently rely on daily antiretroviral therapy (ART) medications to manage the virus.

While effective, ART does not eradicate HIV, as the virus persists in hidden "reservoirs" within the body, capable of reactivation if treatment ceases.

Research Findings and Potential Impact

The study, led by Mary Ann Checkley-Luttge and conducted in the lab of Jonathan Karn, found that NK cells from HIV-positive patients can be expanded and enhanced in a laboratory setting.

These enhanced cells showed increased efficacy in targeting and reducing viral reservoirs.

This discovery represents a significant step towards achieving long-term HIV remission by bolstering the body's immune response.

The approach aims to enable individuals with HIV to control the virus without continuous dependence on daily antiretroviral medications.

Future Plans

The research was published in mBio, a journal of the American Society of Microbiology. The team's next objectives include testing whether lab-enhanced NK cells can function as "off-the-shelf" therapy.

Plans involve conducting studies in advanced animal models that closely mimic human HIV infection, with a goal of advancing to clinical trials within the next two years to test this approach in people living with HIV.

This research was supported by Case Western Reserve's interdisciplinary collaboration and HIV research infrastructure, including an NIH-designated Center for AIDS Research. It relied on blood donations from individuals living with HIV.