How HIV affects immune cells in the gut and their role in maintaining intestinal health
Official title: Impact of HIV-associated intestinal CD8+ T cell function in mucosal homeostasis
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11021020 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the intestines of people with HIV on treatment work and how their health is influenced by fats in the body, with the goal of finding ways to improve gut health and lower the risk of other health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $89,570 |
| NIH project number | 5K99DK136365-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11021020 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are currently receiving antiretroviral therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not living with HIV or those not on antiretroviral therapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of CD8+ T cells in the intestines of people living with HIV who are on antiretroviral therapy. It focuses on how these immune cells interact with the intestinal lining and how their function is affected by lipid metabolism. By understanding the mechanisms behind intestinal barrier disruption and inflammation in HIV patients, the study aims to identify potential therapeutic targets to improve gut health and reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases associated with HIV.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance gut health and reduce the risk of diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular issues in people living with HIV.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that enhancing lipid metabolism in immune cells can improve their function, suggesting that this approach may be promising.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Das Adhikari, Upasana — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Das Adhikari, Upasana
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.