Towards a functional cure of HIV infection with subtype C strains prevalent in South Africa

Summary

South Africa is the epicenter of the HIV epidemics and 98% of HIV infections are with subtype C. Most HIV cure studies involve subtype B, predominant in the West. Dr. Debyser pioneered cure strategies for subtype B, using LEDGINs, small molecules that inhibit the interaction between HIV integrase and the cellular host factor LEDGF/p75. LEDGINs retarget HIV integration into regions of the chromosome where HIV is not transcribed. This strategy is referred to as “block-and-lock” and remains to be tested with subtype C. Dr Madlala has access to cohorts in South Africa infected with subtype C, including a cohort of young women. This TEAM will investigate a block-and-lock strategy with LEDGINs in subtype C strains, train PhD students and build research capacity in South Africa. Community engagement through a Community Advisory Board (CAB) and a Community Liaison Officer (CLO) will be pursued to increase awareness about the importance of HIV Cure research and future clinical trials. 

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