CROI 2026: Funding Cuts, Censorship & the Future of HIV Research

by Dr Natalie Singh - Health Editor
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ViiV Healthcare Advances Ultra Long-Acting HIV Treatment and Prevention at CROI 2026

New data presented at the 33rd Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI 2026) demonstrate ViiV Healthcare’s progress in developing ultra long-acting HIV treatments and prevention options, including first-in-human results for novel integrase inhibitors and capsid inhibitors.

Breakthroughs in Long-Acting HIV Treatment

ViiV Healthcare is showcasing significant advancements in its pipeline of long-acting and ultra long-acting HIV therapies at CROI 2026. The company’s research focuses on extending dosing intervals beyond currently available regimens, aiming for administration every four months or longer.

VH184: A Third-Generation Integrase Inhibitor

Phase 1 data for injectable long-acting formulations of VH184, described as the first third-generation integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI), were presented. An analysis also assessed its in vitro resistance profile compared with bictegravir.

VH499: An Investigational Capsid Inhibitor

Early findings for VH499, an investigational HIV-1 capsid inhibitor, were also shared, including analyses designed to inform ultra long-acting dosing feasibility.

Expanding Options for HIV Prevention

ViiV Healthcare’s presentations at CROI 2026 also highlight progress in HIV prevention, with a focus on extending dosing intervals for preventative regimens and expanding options for diverse populations.

Injectable PrEP Advancements

Particular attention is being paid to injectable PrEP options, including cabotegravir and lenacapavir, particularly among cisgender women. Diversified PrEP options, such as injectable PrEP, vaginal rings, and on-demand oral PrEP, are being explored.

Commitment to Innovation and Patient Needs

Jean van Wyk, Chief Medical Officer at ViiV Healthcare, emphasized the company’s commitment to developing long-acting therapies that address the needs of people impacted by HIV. “We are making major advances towards new ultra long-acting regimens that build on ViiV’s legacy of integrase inhibitors,” van Wyk stated. and

Looking Ahead

ViiV Healthcare’s presentations at CROI 2026 underscore the ongoing commitment to innovation in HIV treatment and prevention. The data presented suggest a future with more convenient, effective, and patient-centered options for managing and preventing HIV infection.

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