Investigating how chemokines affect brain function and survival in HIV patients
Official title: Role of chemokines in neuronal function and survival
Funded at Drexel University · NIH-11079629 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain chemicals in the brain might affect thinking and memory in people with HIV who have neurological issues, especially those who use opioids, to find new ways to help improve brain health and cognitive function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Drexel University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $483,268 |
| NIH project number | 5R37DA015014-23 |
| Project ID | NIH-11079629 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are living with HIV and may be experiencing cognitive impairments, particularly those with a history of substance abuse.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not living with HIV or do not have cognitive impairments related to HIV may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of chemokines in the brain, particularly in individuals living with HIV who experience neurological symptoms. It aims to explore how opioid use may worsen cognitive impairments associated with HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND). By studying the CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling pathway, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic targets that could improve brain health and cognitive function in these patients. The approach involves advanced techniques like 2-photon microscopy to observe changes in brain structure and function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive function and overall brain health for individuals living with HIV.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of chemokines in neurological conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Drexel University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Meucci, Olimpia — Drexel University
- Study coordinator: Meucci, Olimpia
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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.