Improving delivery of HIV treatment to the brain using specialized nanoparticles
Official title: Administrative Supplement for Continuity of Biomedical and Behavioral Research Among First-Time Recipients of NIH Research Project Grant Awards
Funded at University of Mississippi · NIH-11232808 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help HIV medications reach the brain more effectively, which could lead to better treatment for people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Mississippi NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (University, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $72,296 |
| NIH project number | 3R01DA056875-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11232808 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who may benefit from improved treatment options targeting the central nervous system.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not living with HIV or those who have contraindications to antiretroviral therapies may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the delivery of antiretroviral therapies (ARTs) to the brain, where HIV can persist despite treatment. The team is developing biocompatible ionic liquids that help nanoparticles target specific brain cells, such as microglia, to improve the effectiveness of ARTs. By using a novel approach that allows nanoparticles to hitch a ride on red blood cells, they aim to increase the concentration of these therapies in the central nervous system. Preliminary results show promising accumulation of these nanoparticles in the brain, which could lead to better treatment outcomes for HIV patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for HIV by ensuring that medications reach the brain where the virus can hide.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in using nanoparticles for drug delivery, but this specific approach targeting the central nervous system is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Mississippi
University, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tanner, Eden — University of Mississippi
- Study coordinator: Tanner, Eden
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.