Investigating how chloride channels affect brain injury in HIV and opioid use disorder

Chloride channel-dependent mechanisms of opiate and HIV-induced synaptodendritic injury

['FUNDING_R21'] · VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY · NIH-10704734

This study is looking at how opioid use disorder and HIV can harm the brain and affect thinking skills, and it hopes to find ways to protect brain health for people dealing with both conditions.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (RICHMOND, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10704734 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the complex interactions between opioid use disorder and HIV-1 infection, focusing on how these conditions contribute to brain injury and cognitive disorders. It examines the role of chloride ions and specific ion channels in regulating neuronal inhibition and excitability, which may lead to neurotoxicity. By studying cultured neurons, the research aims to identify mechanisms that exacerbate neuronal damage and cognitive decline in affected individuals. The findings could help develop targeted therapies to protect brain function in patients with both HIV and opioid use disorder.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV-1 who also have a history of opioid use disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV-1 or opioid use disorder may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect brain health and improve cognitive function in patients with HIV and opioid use disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of ion channels in neuronal injury, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

RICHMOND, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.