Measuring and Understanding the Hidden HIV Reservoir in Ugandans With Controlled HIV Infection

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the latent HIV reservoir in Ugandans living with HIV who have their virus under control with antiretroviral therapy ART. This reservoir consists of hidden HIV in the blood that remains inactive but can persist for many years, posing a challenge to curing HIV. The study aims to measure the size and characteristics of this reservoir and understand factors affecting it in African populations, as existing data mostly come from Western countries. Participants include groups of HIV-positive adults on ART with suppressed viral loads, those with known recent infection dates, and some not currently on ART but with suppressed viral loads. Blood samples will be collected annually for up to 20 years to analyze viral latency, immune activation, and other markers. The study takes place at the Rakai Health Sciences Program in rural Uganda and involves detailed laboratory testing to track changes in the latent reservoir over time. During the study, participants will undergo medical history reviews, physical exams, and blood tests including finger pricks for hemoglobin screening and larger blood draws. Additional tests for other diseases and pregnancy screening for those who can become pregnant will also be done. Researchers will monitor participants health and collect data yearly to evaluate immune responses and viral reservoir size. This long-term observation will help understand HIV latency and inform future cure strategies.

Quantitative Measurement and Correlates of the Latent HIV Reservoir in Virally Suppressed Ugandans