The National Institutes of Health (NIH), through the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), has announced funding to support research aimed at eliminating HIV proteins by targeting viral RNA or proteins for degradation. This research is intended to explore new drug development strategies that go beyond traditional small molecule inhibitors and address viral resistance. The focus is on developing methods that inhibit RNA splicing, block translation, or degrade RNA encoding HIV proteins, potentially advancing novel therapeutic approaches for HIV treatment.

This funding opportunity, RFA-AI-24-057, supports R01 grant applications that propose hypothesis-driven research backed by preliminary data. The research should focus on developing lead molecules for preclinical studies that target HIV proteins or RNA, utilizing innovative techniques to eliminate HIV proteins. Clinical trials are not allowed under this NOFO, but related companion funding is available through an R21 mechanism (RFA-AI-24-064) for exploratory projects.

Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profits, and foreign organizations. Application budgets are flexible and should reflect the project's needs, with a maximum project period of five years. The deadline for applications is December 4, 2024, with the earliest possible start date being July 2025. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit preliminary data and detailed methodologies for targeting HIV RNA or proteins to ensure compliance and competitiveness.