Investigating how cannabinoids affect gut health and inflammation in people with HIV

Effects of Cannabidiol and Tetrahydrocannabinol on the Microbiome, Endocannabinoids and Neuroinflammation in HIV

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-11052555

This study is looking at how certain compounds from cannabis, like THC and CBD, might help improve gut health and reduce inflammation in people living with HIV by examining changes in gut bacteria and immune responses.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-11052555 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the relationship between the gut microbiome, endocannabinoid system, and neuroinflammation in individuals living with HIV. It aims to understand how cannabinoids like THC and CBD influence gut health and inflammation by conducting a clinical trial with participants receiving these compounds. The study will analyze changes in gut bacteria and immune responses through advanced sequencing techniques and blood tests. By comparing responses in people with and without HIV, the research seeks to uncover potential therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with HIV who are interested in exploring the effects of cannabinoids on their health.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV or those who are not interested in cannabinoid treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve gut health and reduce inflammation in people living with HIV.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using cannabinoids for various health conditions, but this specific approach focusing on HIV is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.