The molecular toolkit behind HIV research

HIV research is one of the clearest examples of molecular biology in action. In this Mol Bio Minutes episode, Dr. Ryan Jeep walks through how fundamental molecular techniques power everything from detection to drug resistance studies to cure-focused research.

Ryan begins with HIV biology and detection, explaining how qRT-PCR enables highly sensitive viral load measurement. These assays not only detection strategies but also support research to monitor treatment efficacy and viral rebound. From there, he moves into drug resistance, describing how sequencing, RT-PCR, and cloning strategies help researchers map resistance-associated mutations. By generating recombinant reporter viruses and measuring infectivity against different drugs, scientists can better understand treatment failure and move toward more personalized therapeutic strategies.

Finally, Ryan explores cutting-edge cure research, including CRISPR-Cas9 approaches aimed at either disabling integrated viral genomes or engineering HIV-resistant immune cells. Across all three areas one theme remains constant: PCR, sequencing, and cloning form the technological backbone of HIV research. As these tools continue to evolve, so too does the potential to improve outcomes and one day eliminate the virus entirely.

Since recording this episode, Ryan has joined KBI Biopharma as a Scientist l in their Formulation Development Group.

Helpful resources and links:

• Access Stanford University’s HIV Drug Resistance Database.
• Visit International AIDS Society’s Towards an HIV Cure site, which includes resources.
• Access Thermo Fisher PCR resources and products.
• Learn about RT-qPCR, which is relevant to HIV research.
• Explore the cloning technologies referenced in this episode.

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Visit the Invitrogen School of Molecular Biology to access helpful molecular biology resources and educational content, and please share this resource with anyone you know working in molecular biology.

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.