How HIV affects stress responses and cocaine addiction
Official title: HIV effects on astrocytic regulation of stress-induced cocaine reinstatement
Funded at Drexel University · NIH-11112524 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how HIV affects stress hormones and how that might make it harder for people with a history of cocaine use to stay sober, using rodent models to learn more about the brain's response to both HIV and addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Drexel University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $151,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R03DA060771-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11112524 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who have a history of cocaine use or addiction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HIV or a history of cocaine use may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between HIV infection, stress responses, and cocaine addiction. It focuses on how HIV may alter cortisol levels, a hormone that regulates stress, and how this interaction could influence relapse in individuals with a history of cocaine use. By using rodent models, the study aims to understand the mechanisms by which HIV and cocaine dependence affect stress responses, particularly through the role of astrocytes, a type of brain cell. The findings could provide insights into the vulnerabilities of HIV-infected individuals who struggle with addiction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for individuals living with HIV who are also struggling with cocaine addiction.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific interaction of HIV and cocaine on stress responses is less explored, related research has shown promising results in understanding addiction mechanisms in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
-
Drexel University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Giacometti, Laura L — Drexel University
- Study coordinator: Giacometti, Laura L
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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.