HIV/AIDS Specimen Repository
Overview
The Division of AIDS (DAIDS), part of NIAID, supports a number of programs, networks, and studies to increase basic knowledge of the pathogenesis and transmission of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), promote the development of therapies for HIV infection and its complications and co-infections, and encourage the development of vaccines and other prevention strategies. They include:
Over the years, these networks, programs, and studies have amassed a wealth of longitudinal data that provides detailed information on the natural history and clinical and laboratory course of HIV disease in various populations. In addition, biological specimens from well-characterized individuals and/or cohorts have been collected and stored in centralized and local repositories. Together with the huge databases to which they are linked, these specimens provide the scientific community with an invaluable research resource for multidisciplinary investigation. The specific fluids and tissues collected vary within specific programs and may include:
- Peripheral blood mononuclear cells
- Serum
- Plasma
- Semen
- Saliva
- Vaginal washings
- Urine
- Placenta
- Autopsy samples
Information regarding access to specimens
MACS/WIHS
- In order to assess specimens collected from the MACS and WIHS studies, investigators must email a completed Collaboration Concept Sheet (in MS Word) to Joana Roe at DAIDS for MACS specimens and to WDMAC for WIHS specimens. If you’re proposing a joint collaboration with both MACS and WIHS, the Concept Sheet must be sent to both contacts.
- Collaboration Concept Sheet and Publication Policy
Women and Infants Transmission Study (WITS)
- WITS was a prospective cohort study of HIV-infected pregnant women and their infants living in cities across the United States. The study was active from 1990 to 2007, and was primarily funded by NIAID, with co-funding from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute on Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) and the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). The initial goal of WITS was to understand the natural history of HIV-1 infection in pregnant women and their infants, children and adolescents. With the advent of potent HIV therapy, WITS research was expanded to study antiretroviral therapy (ART) efficacy and safety.
- Investigators wishing to access archived WITS specimens should review the WITS SOP (PDF) for instruction.
- For further information or additional assistance, please contact: niaidwitsaccess@mail.nih.gov
HIV/AIDS Clinical Networks
- In order to access specimens collected through network studies, investigators must first solicit the interest of network investigators via collaboration. For assistance in identifying potential network collaborators, please contact Daniella Livnat.
- Guidance for accessing network samples
VAX004 Clinical Trial Specimens
Additional Resources
Storage and inventory management of HIV/AIDS specimens
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