CROI 2025 highlights major advancements in HIV treatment

Researchers at the recent CROI 2025 conference shared important findings on new HIV treatments and insights into HIV remission. These studies included promising developments such as a once-yearly HIV prevention option and comparisons of different antiviral therapies. Dr. Moupali Das presented findings from a Phase 1 study on two once-yearly intramuscular formulations of lenacapavir for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Both formulations showed effective drug levels lasting over 56 weeks, outperforming the standard twice-yearly injection option. The study confirmed that participants tolerated the injections well, with only mild pain at the injection site reported. In another study, Dr. Georg Behrens shared results from the LAPTOP trial. This trial compared bictegravir (BIC) and darunavir (DRV) in treatment-naïve individuals with advanced HIV. The study found that the BIC-based regimen led to better virological suppression and faster immune recovery. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings in diverse groups. Immunocore reported initial results from the STRIVE trial, which explored IMC-M113V, a therapy designed to target HIV-infected cells. The trial involved participants already on ART. Some showed delayed viral rebound after interrupting ART, and there were signs of reduced HIV in the body. The early data suggest this treatment might help decrease the viral reservoir. Dr. Thumbi Ndung'u discussed the FRESH study, a trial focusing on two broadly neutralizing antibodies and a drug aimed at HIV remission in South African women. Some participants maintained viral control without ART for extended periods. These results indicate potential new strategies for HIV treatment, especially for women. Lastly, Mehdi Benlarbi talked about the role of soluble gp120 in immune dysfunction among people living with HIV. His research looks into a new drug that may help reduce its negative effects. This study aims to improve immune recovery and lower cardiovascular risks in HIV patients. These findings highlight the ongoing progress in HIV research, with potential new avenues for treatment and prevention.