Together We Will Succeed: A Collaboratory to Find a Cure for HIV - ERASE HIV

The ERASE HIV Collaboratory is at the forefront of groundbreaking research aimed at curing HIV, a formidable challenge that has persisted for decades. This unique initiative, comprising 15 diverse institutions, including academic powerhouses, industry leader Merck, and a dedicated community partner, is the only Martin Delaney Collaboratory based at a national primate research center. By leveraging primate studies, ERASE HIV addresses fundamental questions about HIV's behavior in the body, such as the virus's hiding spots and how to activate the immune system to eliminate infected cells.
Central to their research is the innovative exploration of CD8 T cells, which play a dual role in combating HIV. The team is pioneering methods to reprogram cytotoxic T lymphocyte cells to enhance their ability to target HIV-infected cells while also managing their suppressor activity to optimize immune response. This approach builds on 25 years of research and utilizes platforms developed for SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, offering a rapid testing ground for novel strategies. The involvement of a community partner ensures that interventions are designed with input from those living with HIV, making them more acceptable and effective.
ERASE HIV's work is not just about scientific advancement; it's about hope and accessibility. With Emory University as a catalyst, the Collaboratory is committed to making a potential cure available to all 39 million people living with HIV worldwide. Their efforts bridge the gap between science and community, embodying a message of hope and progress. As they continue to innovate and collaborate, ERASE HIV is making significant strides toward a future where HIV is no longer a life sentence, but a curable condition.
www.erasehiv.org/