Research

Unlocking key questions and making impactful discoveries for families

The MCA Center conducts a broad range of clinical, epidemiological, behavioral, observational, prevention and translational studies. MCA investigators have participated in several large national studies, industry-sponsored treatment trials, and international collaborations. In addition, MCA conducts investigator-initiated studies examining issues related to HIV and other infectious diseases among infected women, children, youth, and their families. MCA researchers collaborate with other investigators within the Keck School of Medicine and beyond with specific interests in maternal, child, and adolescent infectious diseases.

Clinical Studies

Clinical research at MCA has included trials for new antiretroviral agents, treatment of opportunistic infections, vaccine studies, and prevention of HIV transmission studies. HIV/AIDS research has focused on understanding perinatal transmission and the pathogenesis of HIV disease and response to therapy, with special emphasis on the impact of co-infection with hepatitis C, cytomegalovirus (CMV), and other infectious agents. MCA clinical research also explores a range of infectious diseases beyond HIV. Our clinical study areas have included:

  • Vaccine trials, including therapeutic and preventative vaccines for meningococcal meningitis, hepatitis B, HPV, and HIV
  • Phase I, II, and III clinical treatment trials exploring pharmacokinetic properties of antiretroviral therapies and prevention of maternal-fetal transmission
  • Observational studies exploring disease transmission and co-infection, pediatric late outcomes, and medication adherence through therapeutic drug monitoring

Behavioral Studies

Behavioral research at MCA investigates behavioral, intervention, and prevention issues related to HIV infection and risk. Our research focuses on the development of effective therapies, treatment strategies, prevention programs to be used as a model for care, and psychiatric co-morbidity and social support among HIV-infected and HIV-affected populations. Behavioral research areas have included:

  • Prevention program for HIV-positive and HIV-negative individuals
  • Family dynamics
  • Treatment adherence and readiness studies
  • Directly-observed therapy
  • Psychiatric co-morbidity studies of children and adolescents
  • Motivational enhancement for health promotion and risk reduction
  • Support for families living with HIV

Translational Studies

Translational research at MCA focuses on novel approaches to clinical treatment through explorations of pathophysiology, biomarkers for disease, and clinical outcomes. A combination of laboratory and clinical efforts has allowed MCA to make great strides in translational studies of infectious diseases. Current translational research areas include the study of:

  • Prevention of perinatal and sexual transmission of HIV and viral coinfections, CMV and HCV
  • Therapeutics and novel treatment modalities for HIV and other infectious diseases
  • Pathogenesis of HIV disease and the role of co-infections including HCV and CMV
  • Host genetic factors that influence each of these areas
  • Role of innate and adaptive immunity in HIV/HCV disease progression.

MCA investigators have also continued to expand their research in the areas of:

  • Hepatitis B and C
  • Sexually transmitted infections
  • Operational research