What is the HIV+ Long-Term Non-Progressor Study?
A small group of people who are HIV positive remain healthy for long periods of time without medications. These people, known as Long-Term Non-Progressors (also referred to as Elite Controllers), have properties within their immune systems that control the virus. They can help researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, MD, determine how their immune systems control HIV disease. This knowledge is critical for the development of new treatments and vaccines. Find out if you can volunteer for this important research study.
About the Study
What does the study involve?
The Long-Term Non-Progressor Study will examine how white blood cells in the immune system control HIV infection. To do this, volunteers will be asked to come to NIH for a screening visit to make sure they are eligible for the study. If they are, study participants will be asked to return to NIH no more frequently than every six months to donate white blood cells through a procedure called leukapheresis. During leukapheresis, some blood containing white blood cells is removed, and the rest of the blood is returned to the body. This process takes about 1 to 1-1/2 hours.
Where is the study taking place?
The study is being conducted at the Warren Grant Magnuson Clinical Center (Building 10) at NIH in Bethesda, MD. The NIH campus is accessible by car and public transportation. Transportation and other expenses may be covered for eligible participants.
Who Can Participate
You can participate if you:
- Are HIV positive and 18 years of age or older
- Willing and able to give blood (must have good veins) and willing to permit the storage of your blood or tissue samples
- Have a CD4 count greater than or equal to 200 cells/mL
- Have remained healthy without medications for a long period of time
Volunteering
What will happen if I decide to volunteer?
- You will be asked to fill out an information questionnaire, which will be reviewed by the study team to see if you should proceed. If so, you will be asked to come to NIH for a screening visit. This will involve some laboratory studies and a check-up with an NIH physician to make sure you are healthy and able to participate in the study.
- If you are willing and able to participate, you will be asked to return to NIH no more than twice a year to donate white blood cells for the NIH researchers to study.
How much does it cost?
There is no charge to participate in this research study. All study-related medical care, including clinic visits and procedures, are provided free of charge.
Will I receive payment of some kind?
Yes, you will be compensated for your participation in the study. Transportation and other expenses may also be covered.
How do I find out more or volunteer?
If you have questions or would like more information, contact Patient Recruitment, NIH Clinical Center:
Toll free: 1-800-411-1222 or 1-866-411-1010
Fax: 301-480-9793
TTY: 301-594-9774 (local)
Write to: Patient Recruitment - Long-Term Non-Progressor Study, Warren Grant Magnuson Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-2655
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