Effects of certain molecules on brain cell growth after methamphetamine use and HIV infection
Official title: Impact of miRNAs on adult neurogenesis following exposure to methamphetamine and HIV-1 Infection
Funded at University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-11057620 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how methamphetamine and HIV might affect the growth of new brain cells in adults, especially by exploring the role of certain molecules that help move brain cells around, with the hope of finding new ways to help people with HIV who also use meth.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $230,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DA060085-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11057620 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults living with HIV who have a history of methamphetamine use.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HIV or a history of methamphetamine use may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to methamphetamine and HIV affects the growth of new brain cells in adults. It focuses on the role of specific molecules called microRNAs in this process, particularly how they influence the movement of neural progenitor cells in the brain. By studying these interactions, the research aims to uncover potential mechanisms that could lead to new treatments for neurocognitive issues faced by individuals with HIV who also use methamphetamine.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies to improve brain health and cognitive function in HIV-positive individuals who have a history of substance abuse.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of substances on neurogenesis, but this specific approach focusing on microRNAs in the context of HIV and methamphetamine is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Miami School of Medicine
Coral Gables, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Park, Min Seon — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Park, Min Seon
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.