Investigating how drug abuse affects brain inflammation in HIV-infected individuals
Inflammasome activation in an SIV-ART model of chronic drug abuse
This study looks at how using drugs like cocaine and morphine affects brain inflammation in people with HIV, aiming to understand why some still have thinking problems even after treatment, so we can find better ways to help them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10668258 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of chronic drug abuse, specifically cocaine and morphine, on brain inflammation in individuals infected with HIV. It focuses on how these substances activate inflammasomes, which are critical in mediating inflammation in the central nervous system. By studying the effects of these drugs on the activation of inflammatory pathways, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind neurocognitive disorders that persist even after antiretroviral therapy. The findings could lead to better understanding and treatment of cognitive impairments in HIV patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are HIV-infected individuals who have a history of chronic drug abuse and are currently receiving antiretroviral therapy.
Not a fit: Patients who are not HIV-infected or those who do not have a history of drug abuse may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for neurocognitive disorders in HIV-infected individuals, particularly those with a history of drug abuse.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that chronic inflammation plays a significant role in neurocognitive disorders in HIV, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Veenhuis, Rebecca Terilli — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Veenhuis, Rebecca Terilli
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 below.