Award
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) 5R01AI145656-08
Antigen recognition and activation of HIV-specific B cell antigen receptors
Recipient
Duke University, Durham, NC
Award Amount
$1,028,461.00
Ceiling
$1,028,461.00
Awarded
July 15, 2026
Identifier
5R01AI145656-08
This NIH-funded project investigates the biophysical and kinetic properties of B cell antigen receptor interactions with HIV-1 antigens to understand B cell activation mechanisms. The goal is to inform HIV vaccine development by studying how B cells recognize and respond to HIV-1 viral proteins, focusing on broadly neutralizing antibody lineages.
Description
Study of how HIV-1 viral proteins are sensed by B cells expressing B cell antigen receptors (BCRs) of HIV-1 broadly neutralizing antibodies and initiate signaling events for their activation. Using high-resolution assays and B cells from animal models expressing BCRs of HIV unmutated precursors, the project aims to define key properties of BCR-antigen interactions and B cell membrane events that promote co-stimulation and optimal B cell activation leading to the development of anti-HIV protective antibodies. The work will guide and facilitate the development of anti-viral vaccines.