Call for Scientific Proposals: Research into a cure for HIV in Cape Verde

The fight against HIV/AIDS continues to be a global challenge, and Cape Verde is no exception. Despite significant progress in the treatment and management of the disease, a cure remains an elusive goal. Recognising the urgent need to advance research, the Government of Cape Verde, in partnership with international organisations, is announcing a call for scientific proposals focused on research into a cure for HIV.

The Challenge of HIV/AIDS in Cape Verde

Cape Verde, like many developing countries, faces unique challenges in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The prevalence of the disease, although relatively low compared to other African countries, still represents a significant public health concern. Factors such as limited access to resources, stigmatisation and a lack of awareness contribute to the spread of the virus.

• Prevalence: Recent data indicate an HIV prevalence of approximately 0.8% in the adult population.
• Challenges: Limited access to testing and treatment in rural areas, social stigma and lack of comprehensive sex education.
• Impact: The disease disproportionately affects young people and women, impacting the country's socio-economic development.

Objectives of the Call for Proposals

This call for proposals aims to stimulate innovative and collaborative research that can contribute to the development of cure strategies for HIV. Proposals should address one or more of the following areas:

• Development of new therapies: Research into innovative therapeutic approaches, including gene therapies, immunotherapies and other modalities.
• Identification of viral reservoirs: Study of HIV viral reservoirs in the human body and development of strategies to eradicate them.
• Translational research: Translating basic scientific discoveries into practical clinical applications.
• Epidemiological and behavioural studies: Research into the factors that influence HIV transmission and the development of effective behavioural interventions.

Examples of Encouraged Research Projects

To illustrate the type of research that this call aims to support, consider the following examples:

• Study of the immune response in elite controllers: Investigation of the immunological mechanisms that allow some individuals to control HIV without medication.
• Development of therapeutic vaccines: Creating vaccines that can stimulate the immune system to eliminate HIV from the body.
• Using CRISPR to edit the HIV genome: Application of CRISPR technology to remove HIV from the DNA of infected cells.

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be assessed on the basis of the following criteria:

• Relevance: The proposal must address an important issue related to curing HIV and be relevant to the Cape Verdean context.
• Innovation: The proposal must present an innovative and original approach to the research.
• Feasibility: The proposal must be realistic and feasible, with a clear work plan and a reasonable budget.
• Impact: The proposal must have the potential to generate significant results that can contribute to the development of cure strategies for HIV.
• Team qualification: The research team must have the necessary experience and knowledge to carry out the project successfully.

Case Study: The "Berlin Patient" and the Hope of a Cure

The case of the "Berlin Patient", Timothy Ray Brown, who was cured of HIV after a bone marrow transplant, has shown that a cure for HIV is possible. Although bone marrow transplantation is not a viable option for most people with HIV, Brown's case has inspired research and rekindled hope of finding a cure for the disease. This case emphasises the importance of continued research and the exploration of new therapeutic approaches.

How to Submit Your Proposal

Proposals must be submitted electronically via the online portal https://www2.fundsforngos.org/latest-funds-for-ngos/call-for-scientific-proposals-hiv-cure-research/ . Detailed instructions for submitting a proposal, including the necessary forms and formatting requirements, are available on the portal. It is essential to read the instructions carefully before preparing your proposal.

Conclusion

The call for scientific proposals for HIV cure research in Cape Verde represents an important step in the fight against the disease. By supporting innovative and collaborative research, the Government of Cape Verde and its partners hope to contribute to the development of effective cure strategies that can benefit people living with HIV in Cape Verde and around the world. We encourage all qualified researchers to submit their proposals and join us in this important mission.

Call to Action: Submit your proposal today and contribute to the search for a cure for HIV!

Submission link: https://www2.fundsforngos.org/latest-funds-for-ngos/call-for-scientific-proposals-hiv-cure-research/ 

Deadline for submission: 17th May 2025