CAR T cells targeting HIV Envelope

CAR T cells targeting the HIV Envelope (Env) glycoprotein are an experimental cellular immunotherapy designed to identify and eliminate cells infected with HIV. The HIV Env protein is the sole viral antigen expressed on the surface of infected cells, but its low density and high structural complexity pose significant challenges for effective targeting. To overcome these hurdles, researchers are developing CAR T cells using scFvs derived from broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) that target conserved epitopes such as the V3 glycan, V1/V2 apex, and the CD4 binding site. Recent advancements include the engineering of multivalent (bi-specific and tri-specific) CAR T cells to increase functional avidity and prevent viral escape through mutation. These therapies are primarily being investigated for their potential to achieve a functional cure for HIV by depleting the latent viral reservoir.

Other names

anti-HIV Env CAR-THIV Env-specific CAR T cellsbNAb-based CAR T cells