Investigating how certain immune cells contribute to brain issues in people with HIV
Official title: Characterizing subsets of HIV-infected and uninfected CD14+CD16+ monocytes that contribute to neuropathogenesis
Funded at Albert Einstein College of Medicine · NIH-11016980 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells might affect brain health in people with HIV, with the hope of finding new ways to protect the brain from problems like inflammation and memory issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project start | January 16, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $53,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31MH132471-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11016980 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with HIV who may be experiencing cognitive difficulties.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV or those without any cognitive impairments related to HIV may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of specific immune cells, known as CD14+CD16+ monocytes, in the development of brain-related complications in individuals living with HIV. The study aims to characterize these cells and their behavior, particularly how they cross the blood-brain barrier and contribute to neuroinflammation and cognitive impairments. By using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, researchers will analyze the differences between HIV-infected and uninfected monocytes to identify potential therapeutic targets. The ultimate goal is to find ways to block the harmful effects of these cells on the brain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cognitive impairments in people living with HIV.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of immune cells in HIV-related complications, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ruiz, Vanessa — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Ruiz, Vanessa
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.