Investigating how a viral protein affects brain inflammation and damage in HIV patients
Official title: Viral Protein R (Vpr) in HIV-associated Brain Neuroinflammation and Neurotoxicity
Funded at Baltimore VA Medical Center · NIH-11061184 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific HIV protein might cause brain inflammation and related mental health issues, like depression, in people living with HIV, especially veterans, to find new ways to help improve their well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baltimore VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2020 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX004652-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11061184 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living with HIV who are experiencing neurocognitive disorders or mental health challenges.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are HIV-negative or those without any neurological complications related to HIV may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the HIV-1 viral protein R (Vpr) in causing brain inflammation and damage, particularly in individuals living with HIV. It aims to explore how Vpr contributes to neurocognitive disorders and mental health issues, such as depression and suicide risk, which are prevalent among HIV-infected patients. By examining the mechanisms of neuroinflammation and neurotoxicity, the study seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve the quality of life for those affected. The research is particularly relevant to veterans, who may experience these complications at higher rates.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that alleviate brain inflammation and improve mental health outcomes for HIV patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that targeting specific viral factors like Vpr may provide new insights into managing HIV-related neurocognitive disorders, suggesting a promising avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
-
Baltimore VA Medical Center
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhao, Richard Yuqi — Baltimore VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Zhao, Richard Yuqi
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.