CTN 247: Canadian cohort of HIV+ slow progressors

About The Study

The objective of this cohort is to gain a better understanding of slow progressors’ (individuals maintaining a slower than usual loss of CD4 cells ) virus type, factors determining their rate of HIV progression, and how their immune systems work. Clinical investigators and researchers from across the country will assess the target population over a five-year period. Data obtained will be compared within each category and also against the profile of primary HIV infection.

150 HIV-positive treatment-naïve participants will be enrolled and grouped according to their CD4 cell count, viral load and clinical status. Participants’ data information and blood samples will be collected every six months.

About The Disease

A subset of HIV infected individuals (approximately 5 per cent of the total population) are classified as slow progressors (SP) because they exhibit a slow and asymptomatic course of disease progression.

Study Approach

A better understanding of the factors and knowledge of the correlates involved in SP disease progression may have significant benefit for the development of new antiretroviral drug and vaccine design that can translate to new therapeutic interventions and/or immunotherapies.

Participants will be recruited into the study across each province from various clinics, AIDS Service Organizations, social services such as shelters, and through online, peer outreach and other informal networks. If interested in participating or would like more information, please contact a Coordinator in your region.