Basic Science Core C

Summary Basic Science Core C will provide virology and immunology and nonhuman primate (NHP) resources and services to facilitate high-priority HIV/AIDS research, particularly projects within the research theme of the Texas D-CFAR: Ending HIV and Optimizing HIV Health in Texas. Based on a survey of anticipated D- CFAR members, we expect the planned services to meet current needs and future directions of our investigators. First, Core C will provide state-of the-art virology and immunology services, SIV/SHIV-macaque resources, reagents, customized services, and experimental design support for D-CFAR investigators. Second, Core C will support the Scientific Working Group on substance use by consulting on experimental approaches, developing assays and providing resources for basic and translational research on the influence of substance use on HIV disease. To further build capacity, a third major goal of the Core is to support high-priority D-CFAR research initiatives that drive interdisciplinary research in opportunity areas and to support junior investigators and investigators new to HIV research. To this end, Core C will offer training in virological and immunological assays, instrumentation use, analysis, and biosafety for working with HIV and macaque tissues, and provide facilities for HIV research. Core C will also develop new models, and offer access to new technologies and resources of key interest to D-CFAR member investigators. Finally, Core C will collaborate with Clinical and Biostatistics Core D and Developmental Core B to prioritize and support pilot projects of high interest. Core C is led by three experienced HIV researchers with complementary expertise: Dr. Jason Kimata, whose interests are in HIV molecular virology and cure research; Dr. Mahesh Mohan, who is an expert in SIV-macaque models, mechanisms of disease pathogenesis, and substance use; Dr. Netanya Utay, who has expertise in HIV clinical immunology, inflammation, and microbial translocation. They have collaborated with the D-CFAR leadership team and have helped many others perform HIV-related research projects. They will be supervised by an Oversight Committee. The Core Co-Directors will be responsible for day-to-day running of the laboratories, ensuring that usage priorities are managed in a standard manner, and implementing a charge- back system for services and resources. Successful execution of the Basic Science Core objectives will facilitate the vision of cutting-edge HIV/AIDS research at Texas D-CFAR institutions and affiliates that will bring an end to HIV in Texas and beyond.