Combination immunotherapy induces post-intervention control of HIV

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Virology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Achieving sustained antiretroviral therapy (ART)-free control of HIV infection is a critical research goal.
• Combination immunotherapy strategies have shown promise in preclinical models but require further human translation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a combination immunotherapy approach in people living with HIV.
• To assess the safety and efficacy of therapeutic vaccination, broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs), and immune stimulation for ART-free HIV control.

Main Methods:

• A single-arm, proof-of-concept study involving ten participants on ART.
• Participants received therapeutic vaccination, followed by bNAbs and a toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) agonist, with repeat bNAb administration upon ART interruption.

Main Results:

• Seven of ten participants achieved partial or complete control of HIV after stopping ART.
• Early expansion of activated CD8+ T cells correlated with lower viral load set points post-intervention.
• Control was observed independently of residual bNAb plasma levels.

Conclusions:

• Combination immunotherapy, including vaccination and bNAbs, may be effective in inducing sustained HIV control.
• This approach shows potential for slowing viral rebound and enhancing CD8+ T cell responses.
• Further optimization of combination immunotherapy strategies is warranted for HIV treatment.