Effects of nicotine on brain health in HIV-infected individuals
Official title: Neuroimmune and Cognitive Consequences of Nicotine Use in a Rodent Model of HIV: Implications for Anti-Retroviral Therapies
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-11085328 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how using nicotine might impact the brain and immune system in people living with HIV, using rats to help us understand the changes that happen, especially related to thinking and anxiety, so we can find better ways to support those dealing with both HIV and nicotine addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $166,375 |
| NIH project number | 1R03DA061626-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11085328 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who also use nicotine-containing products.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use nicotine or are not living with HIV may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how nicotine use affects the brain and immune system in individuals living with HIV, using a rat model to simulate these effects. It focuses on understanding the neurobiological changes that occur due to nicotine consumption, particularly in areas of the brain associated with addiction, cognition, and anxiety. By examining these interactions, the study aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that may contribute to cognitive impairments and mental health issues in people with HIV. The findings could inform better treatment strategies for those affected by both HIV and nicotine dependence.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapeutic approaches for managing cognitive and emotional challenges faced by individuals living with HIV who use nicotine.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific interactions of nicotine and HIV in the brain are not extensively studied, related research has shown that nicotine can significantly impact neuroimmune responses and cognitive function.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gipson-Reichardt, Cassandra D — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Gipson-Reichardt, Cassandra D
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.