Dr. Sheila Balinda, a molecular virologist at the MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, is leading a critical HIV cure research study. She is pioneering a four-year study that investigates HIV-1 reservoir kinetics and host immune interactions, specifically focusing on non-B subtypes prevalent in Sub Saharan Africa. This research aims to deepen the understanding of how these viral reservoirs behave and interact with the immune system, representing a significant step forward in HIV cure efforts.

This study is among the first of its kind to explore the dynamics of the HIV-1 latent reservoir—a collection of cells infected with HIV that remain dormant and are not actively producing new viruses—in subtypes A1, D, and A1D recombinants in East Africa. Understanding these reservoirs is crucial as they represent the most significant barrier to curing HIV. By characterizing how these latent reservoirs behave, the study aims to uncover potential immune markers that could guide the development of new treatments to eliminate these hidden HIV reservoirs.

Scientific and educational impact

This research presents the potential to revolutionize the global fight against HIV by providing vital insights that could lead to innovative treatments. 

"I anticipate to detect immune markers that could  be used to inform new treatments to eliminate latent HIV viral reservoirs," Dr. Balinda remarked. 

Data generated from this study will contribute to the broader effort to find a cure for HIV. The research will also aid in developing machine learning tools designed to predict reservoir behaviors, further advancing the global fight against HIV.

With 90% of preventable deaths occurring in regions that receive only 10% of global health research funding, the project will address the urgent need to empower African researchers and build local capacity. 

“This research is also a crucial step toward addressing the local research capacity imbalance by equipping the next wave of African scientists with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle public health challenges in Sub-Saharan Africa and beyond. Through this study, I will mentor one PhD student who will in turn mentor master’s students, fostering a cycle of knowledge transfer and scientific excellence across generations.” noted Dr. Sheila

Dr. Balinda’s work is supported by a team of researchers, including Dr. Kate Bishop, a senior group leader at The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK and Assoc. Prof. Stephen Cose, Head of the Immunology platform at MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, who will serve as mentors on the project. Frank Kato, a PhD fellow and biotechnologist at the Unit, will also contribute to the study.
 

The study is sponsored by The Crick African Network (CAN) fellowship, funded by LifeArc, a global self-funded medical research charity based in the UK. The fellowship is particularly relevant in Sub-Saharan Africa, where building research capacity is essential for addressing public health challenges. Through CAN, this project not only aims to make scientific breakthroughs but also to strengthen research infrastructure and expertise in the region.

About MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit
The MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit is an internationally recognized centre of excellence for research and training. Its mission is to conduct high-quality research that adds knowledge and leads to improved control of infectious and non-communicable diseases in Uganda, Africa and globally, through translation of scientific findings into policy and practice, and rigorous research capacity building.

About LifeArc

Life Arc, UK, a global self-funded medical research charity that collaborates with partners to get medical breakthroughs. By feeding in our expertise and collaborating with others, we build a better global system that speeds good science out of the lab and into real-life, closer to the people who really need it. LifeArc progresses promising early-stage science for some of the most under-served health conditions by funding it, forming partnerships, and providing scientific and commercialisation support

About Crick African Network
The Crick Africa Network (CAN) supports the development of equitable research capacity in Africa. The Crick’s mission is discovery without boundaries. We don’t limit the direction our research takes. We want to understand more about how living things work to help improve treatment, diagnosis and prevention of human disease, and generate economic opportunities for the UK.

Contact press@mrcuganda.org for enquiries about the study and interviews with the study leads.