Investigating biomarkers related to HIV and cigarette use effects on the brain
Extracellular Vesicle and Extracellular RNA Biomarkers of HIV-1 Central Nervous System Pathogenesis and Cigarette Use
This study is looking at how HIV impacts the brain and whether smoking makes things worse, with the goal of finding helpful markers in blood or other fluids that can improve how we diagnose and treat brain issues related to HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10456790 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how HIV affects the brain and the potential role of cigarette smoking in worsening these effects. It aims to identify stable biomarkers, specifically extracellular RNAs and extracellular vesicles, that can indicate neurological disorders in HIV-infected individuals. By analyzing these biomarkers in easily accessible biological fluids, the study seeks to improve the diagnosis and treatment of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders. The research also considers the impact of substance use disorders, particularly smoking, on these neurological conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are HIV-infected individuals, particularly those who also smoke cigarettes or have substance use disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who are not HIV-infected or do not have any neurological disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and treatment strategies for HIV-infected individuals experiencing neurological disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using biomarkers for HIV and related neurological conditions, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Witwer, Kenneth W — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Witwer, Kenneth W
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.