Investigating how a specific protein affects brain health in people with HIV
Role of Monocyte Delta Like-4 (Dll4) in HIV-Associated Cerebral Small Vessel Disease
This study is looking at how a protein called Dll4 affects brain blood vessels and thinking skills in people with HIV, especially those dealing with inflammation, to help us understand more about cerebral small vessel disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10837487 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a protein called Delta like-4 (Dll4) in the development of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) and its effects on cognitive function in individuals living with HIV. The study examines how Dll4, which is typically found in blood vessel cells, can be expressed by immune cells under inflammatory conditions, particularly in the context of ongoing inflammation in HIV patients receiving treatment. By analyzing both laboratory models and clinical samples, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms by which Dll4 influences brain blood vessel function and cognition.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are experiencing cognitive difficulties or have been diagnosed with cerebral small vessel disease.
Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those without cognitive impairments related to cerebral small vessel disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies to protect brain health and improve cognitive function in people living with HIV.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific role of Dll4 in this context is being explored, similar research has shown that targeting inflammatory pathways can lead to improvements in vascular health and cognitive function in other conditions.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- University of Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schifitto, Giovanni — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Schifitto, Giovanni
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.