How HIV and cannabis change cells in brain areas that make new neurons
Elucidating single cell changes in neurogenic brain regions during HIV and cannabinoid exposure
This project looks at how HIV and cannabis exposure alter individual brain cells in neuron‑forming regions, with results meant to help people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11309661 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
I want to know whether HIV and cannabis change the cells that support new neuron growth in parts of the brain linked to memory. The team uses brain tissue from a nonhuman primate model given THC and CBD and applies single‑cell gene and epigenetic profiling to cells from the hippocampus and subventricular zone. They focus on immune cells like microglia and myeloid cells to detect inflammation signals and any ongoing HIV activity in brain or cerebrospinal fluid cells. Results are intended to clarify whether cannabis alters brain immune responses or neuron production in ways that could affect thinking and memory for people with HIV.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with HIV, especially those who use cannabis or have concerns about memory or thinking, would find the findings most relevant.
Not a fit: People without HIV or whose cannabis use is very different from the exposures modeled (for example, occasional recreational users) may not directly benefit from the results.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could clarify whether cannabis helps or harms brain health in people living with HIV, informing safer use and treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has shown cannabis can alter myeloid inflammation and single‑cell studies have found immune changes and ongoing viral signals in CSF, but applying single‑cell and epigenetic profiling to neurogenic regions in the context of HIV and cannabinoids is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ndhlovu, Lishomwa C — Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
- Study coordinator: Ndhlovu, Lishomwa C
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.