Effects of HIV and estrogen on cocaine behavior regulation
Official title: HIV and estrogen effects on hypothalamic regulation of cocaine-related behavior
Funded at Drexel University · NIH-11007710 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how HIV affects hormone levels and menstrual cycles in women who use drugs, using a special mouse model to help us understand these changes better and find new ways to help those who are impacted.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Drexel University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $227,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DA060112-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11007710 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women aged 21 and older who are living with HIV and have a history of cocaine use.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HIV or who do not use cocaine may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how HIV infection affects hormone levels and menstrual cycles, particularly in women who use drugs. It focuses on the medial preoptic area (mPOA) of the hypothalamus, which plays a crucial role in regulating both hormonal release and cocaine-related behaviors. By studying the EcoHIV mouse model, the research aims to understand the connection between HIV infection, hormonal changes, and drug-related behaviors, potentially leading to insights into treatment strategies for affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for women with HIV who are also struggling with substance use.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that hormonal regulation can influence drug-related behaviors, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Drexel University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Barker, Jacqueline M — Drexel University
- Study coordinator: Barker, Jacqueline M
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.