Federal Grant Award Summary

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) awarded The Regents of the University of Colorado-Denver a $429,000 Project Grant under the Allergy and Infectious Diseases Research program (CFDA 93.855) for the period June 1, 2026, through May 31, 2028. This research project investigates HIV-1 Vpr (Viral Protein R) and its role in mucosal immunopathogenesis, with the objective of elucidating the functional properties of HIV-1 Vpr to inform novel therapeutic and cure strategies. The research will employ the Lamina Propria Aggregate Culture (LPAC) model to study HIV-1 replication biology in mucosal tissues, specifically examining how Vpr affects CD4+ T cell depletion in the gastrointestinal tract during acute infection and its contribution to persistent inflammation and immune activation.

The project addresses a critical gap in understanding early HIV-1 pathogenesis in mucosal tissues, where initial viral replication and CD4 T cell destruction occur. By utilizing infection models that more accurately capture in vivo replication dynamics, the research aims to resolve inconsistencies in prior studies regarding Vpr function and its effects on innate immune regulation, apoptosis, and cell-cycle arrest in myeloid cells and lymphocytes. The deliverables will consist of research findings, experimental data, and scientific publications advancing knowledge of HIV-1 viral protein function and mucosal immune responses relevant to developing improved treatment interventions.