How fentanyl affects the brain and HIV in people with neuroHIV
Synthetic fentanyls adversely affect the blood-brain barrier and HIV replication in the context of neuroHIV
This project looks at how fentanyl and similar drugs might change the brain and affect HIV in people living with the virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11177891 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that fentanyl use is increasing, and it's often found in people living with HIV. This project aims to understand how fentanyl might worsen the effects of HIV on the brain, specifically by looking at how it affects the brain's protective barrier and how HIV spreads in brain cells. By understanding these connections, we hope to learn more about why neurological problems increase in people with HIV who also use fentanyl. This work could help us find new ways to protect the brain from these combined effects.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for individuals living with HIV, especially those who have used or are using fentanyl, and are concerned about neurological complications.
Not a fit: Patients not living with HIV or not exposed to fentanyl may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for protecting the brains of people living with HIV from the harmful effects of fentanyl.
How similar studies have performed: While the link between opioids and neuroHIV is known, specific information on fentanyl's effects on HIV infection in the central nervous system is largely unknown, making this a novel area of focus.
Where this research is happening
Gainesville, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Andrews, Allison Michelle — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Andrews, Allison Michelle
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.