Investigating how brain cells contribute to HIV persistence and damage
Brain Myeloid Cells are Sources of HIV-associated Damage and Viral Dispersal
This study is looking at how certain brain cells affected by HIV might keep the virus alive and cause damage, and it’s for people living with HIV who want to understand how treatments and other factors might influence their brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11088284 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of brain myeloid cells in the persistence of HIV and the damage it causes to the brain. It aims to understand how these infected cells may release the virus to other parts of the body and how factors like antiretroviral therapy and opioids affect this process. By mapping the size and activity of HIV reservoirs in these brain cells, the study seeks to uncover the relationship between HIV persistence, inflammation, and cellular damage. The findings could lead to improved strategies for treating HIV and enhancing brain health in individuals living with the virus.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV, particularly those experiencing neurological symptoms or complications.
Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those who do not have neurological involvement may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for curing HIV and improving brain health in affected individuals.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that brain macrophages and microglia can harbor HIV, indicating that this area of study is both relevant and necessary for advancing treatment options.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chaillon, Antoine — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Chaillon, Antoine
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.