Cure Therapies for HIV

This trial aims to explore how potential HIV cure therapies affect the virus and immune cells in the gut. Participants will undergo a colonoscopy, a procedure using a camera to inspect the colon, to collect tissue samples. Researchers will examine these samples for changes in immune cells and viral levels. People living with chronic HIV-1, who are on treatment aiming for a cure and comfortable with undergoing a colonoscopy, may be a good fit for this study. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in HIV cure strategies.

The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, it mentions that participants must be receiving treatment with a molecule that has the potential for an HIV cure.

Studies have shown that some HIV cure therapies can be safe for participants. In one program, participants reported no harmful effects, suggesting that the treatments might be easy to handle. Another study followed a drug called maraviroc for five years, and it was generally safe for those who had used other HIV treatments before. It's important to note that health authorities have not yet approved all HIV cure therapies. While some early results are promising, researchers continue to learn about the safety of these treatments.¹²³⁴⁵

Unlike the standard HIV treatments, which typically involve antiretroviral drugs to manage the virus, this trial is exploring colonoscopy as a potential avenue for an HIV cure. Researchers are excited about this approach because it could uncover new insights into how the gastrointestinal tract might play a role in eliminating the virus from the body. This method is unique as it focuses on a physical procedure rather than medication, potentially paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries in the fight against HIV.

Studies have shown that treatments for HIV aim to control the virus without ongoing medication. Although a universal cure does not yet exist, researchers are exploring various approaches. In this trial, participants will receive therapies with potential for an HIV cure. Some studies suggest that widespread use of these treatments could significantly reduce new HIV cases. However, effectiveness can vary, and further research is needed to understand long-term effects. The primary goal is to find a treatment that manages the virus and enhances life for people with HIV.¹⁶⁷⁸⁹