International Maternal Pediatric Adolescent AIDS Clinical Trials Group

Research network focused on HIV/AIDS in maternal, pediatric, and adolescent populations

Logo of the International Maternal Pediatric Adolescent AIDS Clinical Trials Group

The International Maternal Pediatric Adolescent AIDS Clinical Trials Group (IMPAACT) is a collaborative network dedicated to conducting research on the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS in maternal, pediatric, and adolescent populations. The group aims to improve health outcomes for these populations through innovative clinical trials and research initiatives.

History

IMPAACT was established to address the unique challenges faced by women, children, and adolescents living with or at risk for HIV/AIDS. The network builds on the legacy of previous research groups, including the Pediatric AIDS Clinical Trials Group (PACTG) and the International Maternal Pediatric Adolescent AIDS Trials (IMPAACT) Network, which merged to form the current organization.

Mission and Objectives

The primary mission of IMPAACT is to reduce the burden of HIV/AIDS in maternal, pediatric, and adolescent populations through high-quality clinical trials. The group's objectives include:

• Developing and evaluating new antiretroviral therapies
• Investigating strategies for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV
• Studying the long-term effects of HIV and its treatment in children and adolescents
• Enhancing the understanding of HIV pathogenesis and immune response in these populations

Research Areas

IMPAACT conducts research in several key areas:

Antiretroviral Therapy

The group evaluates new antiretroviral drugs and treatment regimens to improve efficacy and reduce side effects in children and adolescents. This includes studies on drug formulations suitable for pediatric use and strategies to enhance adherence to therapy.

Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission

IMPAACT investigates interventions to prevent the transmission of HIV from mothers to their infants during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding. This includes evaluating the safety and effectiveness of antiretroviral drugs during pregnancy and lactation.

HIV Co-Infections and Complications

Research also focuses on the management of co-infections such as tuberculosis and hepatitis in HIV-infected children and adolescents, as well as the prevention and treatment of opportunistic infections.

Immunology and Vaccine Development

The group explores the immune response to HIV and the development of vaccines to prevent infection. This includes studies on the safety and immunogenicity of candidate vaccines in pediatric and adolescent populations.

Collaborations and Partnerships

IMPAACT collaborates with various international organizations, research institutions, and community groups to enhance the impact of its research. These partnerships facilitate the sharing of knowledge and resources, enabling the group to conduct large-scale, multi-site clinical trials.

Impact and Achievements

IMPAACT has contributed significantly to the understanding and management of HIV/AIDS in maternal, pediatric, and adolescent populations. The group's research has led to the development of new treatment guidelines and has improved the standard of care for these vulnerable groups.

Related pages

• HIV/AIDS
• Antiretroviral therapy
• Mother-to-child transmission of HIV
• Pediatric HIV/AIDS