Investigating how cannabinoids can reduce inflammation in the brain and gut related to HIV and cocaine use
Official title: Cannabinoid inhibition of CNS inflammasome activation via modulation of the gut-brain axis
Funded at University of Nebraska Medical Center · NIH-11055881 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how low doses of cannabinoids might help reduce inflammation in the brain and intestines caused by cocaine and HIV/SIV, with the goal of finding better ways to manage these issues for people living with HIV/SIV, especially when combined with regular HIV treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nebraska Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Omaha, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $898,025 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DA059874-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11055881 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living with HIV/SIV who also have a history of cocaine use and experience related inflammation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HIV/SIV or a history of cocaine use may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the effects of long-term, low-dose cannabinoids on inflammation caused by cocaine and HIV/SIV in the brain and intestines. It focuses on a specific protein complex called the NLRP3 inflammasome, which plays a role in the body's immune response. By examining how cannabinoids can modulate this inflammasome and its associated gene expression, the study aims to understand how to better manage inflammation and disease progression in patients with HIV/SIV. The research also looks at the potential benefits of combining cannabinoid treatment with standard antiretroviral therapy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies that reduce inflammation and slow disease progression in patients with HIV/SIV.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific combination of cannabinoids and antiretroviral therapy is novel, there is existing research indicating that cannabinoids may have anti-inflammatory effects in similar contexts.
Where this research is happening
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University of Nebraska Medical Center
Omaha, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Byrareddy, Siddappa N — University of Nebraska Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Byrareddy, Siddappa N
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.