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.

Eligibility Requirements

Required

  • Must be HIV+ by ELISA with a confirmed Western Blot
  • At least 18 years of age
  • Be antiretroviral naïve
  • Be willing to give informed consent

Not Allowed

  • Having taken antiretroviral therapy at any time
  • Failure to keep appointments or missing two study visits in a row at any given time of the research study
  • Termination or cancellation of the study

Additional Information

If you would like more information on this clinical study, please refer to a participating site.

Study Coordinator

Stephanie Matte
Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CHUM)
Ph: 514-890-8000 ext. 14645
Email: stephanie.matte.chum@ssss.gouv.qc.ca

Principal Investigators

Here’s who is leading this study.

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Email ctninfo@hivnet.ubc.ca.

Participating Sites

Here’s where this study is being conducted.