How antiretroviral therapy affects brain cells in people with HIV.
Official title: Antiretroviral Therapy Impacts Autophagy in Astrocytes, and May Contribute to HIV Associated Neurocognitive Disorders
Funded at Albert Einstein College of Medicine · NIH-10899683 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a process in brain support cells called autophagy affects thinking and memory problems in people with HIV, and how HIV medications might change this process to help find better treatments for those issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project start | August 18, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $194,400 |
| NIH project number | 5K08MH130210-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10899683 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are experiencing cognitive difficulties despite receiving antiretroviral therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not living with HIV or those who do not exhibit cognitive impairments related to HIV may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of autophagy, a cellular process, in astrocytes (brain support cells) and its impact on HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND). The study aims to understand how antiretroviral therapy influences this process and contributes to cognitive issues in individuals living with HIV. By examining the mechanisms behind dysregulated autophagy in astrocytes, the research seeks to identify potential treatment targets for HAND. The project combines clinical insights with advanced techniques to enhance understanding of these complex interactions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies for improving cognitive function in individuals with HIV.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that understanding autophagy in the context of neurocognitive disorders may lead to significant advancements, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cheney, Laura — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Cheney, Laura
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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.