Human brain organoids to understand how HIV and opioids harm the brain
A new brain organoid model for NeuroHIV and the impact of opioids
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-11174509
Researchers are using lab-grown human brain tissue to learn how HIV and opioid exposure damage brain cells in people living with HIV.
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-11174509 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The team grows 3-D human cortical organoids that recreate many cell types found in the human brain. They expose these organoids to HIV and to opioids to observe how the virus, drugs, and host responses interact. They will track viral persistence, inflammation signals, and cell-type changes over time. Results are intended to reveal molecular steps that lead to HIV-associated neurological problems and suggest targets for therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal contributors would be people living with HIV who are willing to donate blood or other tissue samples, especially those with a history of opioid use.
Not a fit: People without HIV or those seeking immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to receive direct benefits from this lab-based research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could explain why people with HIV develop brain problems and guide new treatments to protect the brain.
How similar studies have performed: Human brain organoids have successfully modeled other viral brain injuries (for example Zika), but applying them to NeuroHIV and opioid interactions is relatively new and less tested.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MUOTRI, ALYSSON R. — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: MUOTRI, ALYSSON R.
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