Humanized mouse models, immunodeficient mice transplanted with human cells/tissues, have been used by HIV researchers for over 30 years to study aspects of HIV infection (e.g. transmission, pathogenesis, and persistence) and to perform efficacy testing of novel prevention, treatment, and cure approaches. This presentation will introduce the most commonly used humanized mouse models for HIV research providing details on their construction, reconstitution with different human cell types, susceptibility to different routes of HIV transmission, and parameters of infection. The application of humanized mice for testing novel antivirals, biologics, and cell and gene therapy approaches will also be discussed as will practical considerations for working with these models. This presentation will highlight strengths of using humanized mouse models for HIV research, challenges, and areas for further refinement. A future outlook on the use of humanized mice for HIV research will also be provided.
CROI Conference
