How changes in the mitochondrial protein TFAM affect brain cell energy in people with HIV on ART
The role of TFAM alterations in HIV- and ART-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in the brain
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-11248261
This work looks at whether changes in a mitochondrial protein called TFAM cause brain cell energy problems that lead to thinking and memory difficulties in people living with HIV who are taking antiretroviral therapy.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11248261 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will study how HIV infection and long-term antiretroviral therapy change TFAM activity in brain support cells called astroglia and how those changes affect neuronal energy and function. The team will use laboratory models of HIV exposure, molecular tools to alter TFAM in cells, and analysis of human brain samples when available to trace effects on mitochondrial activity. They will look specifically at how disrupted astroglial control of metabolic substrates (glucose, lactate, glutamine) may deprive neurons of energy and contribute to cognitive problems. The work aims to connect molecular changes to the thinking and memory symptoms experienced by people with HIV and point toward targetable pathways.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with HIV—especially those on long-term ART who are experiencing memory or other cognitive symptoms—would be the most relevant candidates to benefit from this work.
Not a fit: People without HIV or whose cognitive symptoms are caused by unrelated conditions (for example, non-HIV neurodegenerative diseases) may not benefit from findings specific to HIV- and ART-related mitochondrial changes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could point to new treatments that protect neurons and reduce thinking and memory problems in people with HIV.
How similar studies have performed: Prior preclinical studies link mitochondrial dysfunction and reactive astroglia to HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder, but directly targeting TFAM is a relatively new approach with limited clinical testing so far.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FIELDS, JEREL ADAM — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: FIELDS, JEREL ADAM
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 below.
Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus