Investigating how depression affects the immune system in people with HIV

Treatment Research Investigating Depression Effects on Neuroimmune Targets (TRIDENT)

NIH-funded research Florida International University · NIH-10954305

This study is looking at how depression affects the immune system and gut health in people living with HIV, and it’s for those who are HIV positive and dealing with depression; by using a special therapy to help, the researchers hope to find ways to improve their overall health and well-being.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionFlorida International University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Miami, United States)
Project IDNIH-10954305 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the relationship between depression and HIV by examining how depression impacts the immune system and gut health in individuals living with HIV. It focuses on the microbiome-gut-brain axis, which connects gut health to brain function and immune response. The study will involve 120 participants who are HIV positive, depressed, and on effective antiretroviral therapy, utilizing Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Adherence and Depression to assess changes in their health. By understanding these connections, the research aims to improve treatment outcomes for those affected.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are experiencing depression and are on an integrase strand transfer inhibitor-based antiretroviral therapy with an undetectable viral load.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those who do not have depression may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health and immune function in people living with HIV.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the connections between mental health and immune function, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

Miami, 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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.