Can a tuberculosis vaccine help fight HIV? new study explores

NCT ID NCT05004038

Completed Disease control Sponsor: University of Zurich Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether the BCG vaccine, normally used to prevent tuberculosis, could reduce the hidden HIV reservoir in people living with HIV who are on antiretroviral therapy. Sixty participants received either a single BCG shot or a placebo. Researchers measured changes in HIV DNA levels in blood cells over six months to see if the vaccine could help control the virus.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: BCG vaccine (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could show that BCG vaccination helps shrink the hidden HIV reservoir, potentially pointing toward a way to better control or even eliminate HIV.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase study with only 60 participants. The effect on the HIV reservoir may be minimal or temporary, and BCG is not a cure for HIV.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

HIV infectious disease

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

HIV-1-INFECTION

Contacts and locations

Locations

University Hospital Zurich

Zurich, 8091, Switzerland

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