Investigating how cell communication affects damage from HIV in the brain
Official title: Targeting cell-to-cell communication to prevent bystander damage mediated by viral reservoirs
Funded at University of Texas Med Br Galveston · NIH-11088913 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how HIV can harm brain cells even when the virus isn't actively spreading, and it's for people living with HIV who may be experiencing problems with thinking or movement; the researchers want to find ways to protect healthy brain cells and improve treatment options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $586,466 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH134761-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11088913 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are undergoing antiretroviral therapy and may experience cognitive or motor impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not living with HIV or those who do not experience any neurological symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how HIV affects communication between brain cells, particularly astrocytes, which can lead to damage even when the virus is not actively replicating. The study aims to explore the mechanisms behind this bystander damage caused by viral reservoirs in the central nervous system. By examining the role of specific channels that facilitate cell communication, the researchers hope to identify new strategies to protect uninfected brain cells from harm. This could lead to improved treatment approaches for individuals living with HIV-related cognitive and motor impairments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that prevent cognitive and motor impairments in individuals living with HIV.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of targeting cell communication in the context of HIV is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in understanding viral reservoirs and their impact on brain health.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Med Br Galveston
Galveston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Eugenin, Eliseo a — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Eugenin, Eliseo a
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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.