Investigating how a brain enzyme affects sleep problems in people with HIV

The role of microglial glutaminase in HIV-induced sleep deficits

['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11178091

This study is looking at how a brain enzyme called glutaminase might be affecting sleep problems in people with HIV, and it will test if blocking this enzyme can help improve sleep and thinking skills in animals that have similar issues, which could lead to better treatments for sleep troubles in those living with HIV.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorJOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11178091 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the connection between a specific brain enzyme, glutaminase, and sleep disturbances in individuals living with HIV. It aims to explore how inflammation in the brain, caused by HIV, may disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to insomnia. By using a specialized inhibitor to block the action of glutaminase, the study will assess whether this can improve sleep quality and cognitive function in animal models that mimic HIV-related conditions. The findings could lead to new treatments for sleep disorders in people with HIV.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who experience sleep disturbances or insomnia.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV or those without sleep issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved sleep quality and cognitive function for individuals living with HIV.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using similar approaches to address neuroinflammation and cognitive deficits in HIV models.

Where this research is happening

BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.