Study of Autophagy and the Effects of GALIG Gene Products in HIV-1 Infected Patients Who Are Under Antiretroviral Therapy Since Primary-infection, Chronic Phase, or Never Treated.
This study is exploring a process in our body’s cells called autophagy, which is like the cell's clean-up and recycling system. We know that in people with HIV, even those whose treatment is successfully controlling the virus, this process might not work as it should. This can lead to ongoing problems like inflammation. We want to understand if certain immune cells (CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, and monocytes) in HIV-positive individuals have problems with autophagy. We're studying people who started HIV treatment at different times, some who control the virus naturally, and comparing them to healthy individuals. The aim is to find out more about these cellular changes and how they might affect health in the long term, even with effective treatment.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This research is investigating a natural process that happens inside our body's cells called 'autophagy'. You can think of autophagy as the cell’s tidy-up and recycling system. It helps remove damaged parts and waste, keeping the cells healthy. In people living with HIV, even when their medication (antiretroviral therapy) is working very well to keep the virus under control, this cell clean-up process might not be working properly.
When autophagy isn't working as it should, it can be linked to other health issues like persistent inflammation and cells aging faster. These are problems sometimes seen in people with HIV, even on long-term, effective treatment. We want to learn more about this connection to potentially find ways to improve the long-term health of people living with HIV.
The main goal of this study is to see if specific types of immune cells – CD4 and CD8 T cells, and monocytes – found in the blood of people with HIV have problems with their autophagy system. We will compare these cells from different groups of HIV-positive individuals (for example, those who started treatment early versus later, or those who control the virus without medication) with cells from healthy volunteers who do not have HIV. This will help us understand why these cellular changes happen and what impact they might have.
Key takeaways
- Understanding cell recycling (autophagy) in HIV.
- Investigating long-term health in well-treated HIV.
- Comparing immune cells from different patient groups and healthy volunteers.
- No new medication involved, purely observational.
- Aims to improve future HIV care and understanding.
Who may be eligible?
To be part of this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and have HIV-1 (not HIV-2). You also need to be receiving your care at Orleans' Regional Hospital in France. Before you can join, you'll need to read and sign a consent form.
We're looking for different groups of people based on their HIV experience. This includes people who have been on successful HIV treatment for at least four years, those who started treatment very early after getting HIV, and others who are about to start treatment. We're also interested in people who naturally keep their HIV under control without medication.
However, some things would mean you can't join. For example, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have a history of certain bowel problems or cancer, you wouldn't be able to take part. The study staff will talk to you about all the specific requirements to see if this study is right for you.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Do you have HIV-1?
- Are you a patient at Orleans' Regional Hospital?
- Are you able to provide blood samples for research?
- Are you not pregnant or breastfeeding?
What does participation involve?
The detailed activities involved in taking part are not fully explained here, but generally, studies like this involve providing blood samples. These samples would be used to look at your immune cells and how the 'autophagy' process is working within them. There wouldn't be any new medication given as part of this study, as it's observational – meaning we are looking at existing conditions and treatments.
You would need to attend appointments at Orleans' Regional Hospital for any required sample collections or assessments. The specific number of visits and the total length of your participation would be explained to you by the research team if you are eligible and interested.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- CHU OrleansVerified postcodeOrléans, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What is 'autophagy'?
Autophagy is like a natural recycling system inside your body's cells that helps them stay healthy by cleaning out old or damaged parts.
Why is this study important for people with HIV?
Even with successful HIV treatment, some people may still have ongoing health issues. This study aims to understand if problems with 'autophagy' contribute to these issues.
Will I receive new medication as part of this study?
No, this study is observational, meaning we are observing and learning. You will not receive any new or experimental medications.
What if I decide I don't want to participate anymore?
You are free to leave the study at any time, for any reason, and it will not affect your medical care.
Will my regular HIV treatment change if I join?
No, your regular HIV treatment will continue as prescribed by your doctor. This study does not involve changing your existing medications.
How to find out more
Aurélie DESPUJOLS
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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