Biomarkers, Prevention and Interventions for HIV-associated Malignancies and NCDs Core

The Biomarkers, Prevention and Interventions for HIV-associated Malignancies and NCDs (BPIN) provides high-dimensional data, biospecimens, and state-of-the-art tools for novel studies of cancer and other NCDs among persons living with HIV (PLWH).

Cancer and other non-communicable diseases are the leading cause of death among persons living with HIV (PLWH) worldwide. Infection with HIV significantly increases the risk of a host of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and pulmonary disease. In the era of widespread availability of antiretroviral therapy, with the increased life expectancy of PLWH, the incidence of NCDs has increased and now is the leading cause of death. Unfortunately, substantial gaps remain in understanding how HIV-infection potentiates the development of NCDs, how to best prevent the development of the chronic complications of HIV infection, and how NCDs are optimally treated in PLHW. New strategies are needed and will require careful translational, clinical, and epidemiologic investigations. This Core will strengthen research in our local and global HIV communities through 3 specific aims. 

1: Support new and established researchers in the fields of cancer and other NCD with consultation and research instruments to design and implement impactful epidemiologic, clinical, and translational studies to elucidate pathogenesis and identify optimal methods to prevent and treat cancer and other NCDs among PLWH 

2: Collect and disseminate high-dimension data and biospecimens from PLWH with or at risk for cancer and other NCDs to CFAR investigators who seek to conduct basic and translational studies 

3: Develop and distribute state-of-the-art tools for novel studies of cancer and other NCDs among PLWH, including image analysis, histopathology, and molecular diagnostic assays