Investigating how drugs of abuse interact with HIV in brain cells
Modeling drugs of abuse-HIV interactions using iPSC-derived human cerebral organoids
This study is looking at tiny brain-like structures made from stem cells to see how HIV and drugs like meth and morphine affect brain cells, which could help us understand the damage caused in people living with HIV/AIDS who also use these substances.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Scripps Research Institute, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10892224 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research uses human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to create brain-like organoids that mimic the interactions between HIV and drugs of abuse, such as methamphetamine and morphine. By studying these organoids, researchers aim to understand how HIV-infected microglia release harmful substances that affect neurons. The project employs advanced techniques like genomic profiling and electrophysiology to analyze the effects of HIV and drug exposure on brain cells. This approach could reveal important insights into the mechanisms of neurodegeneration in individuals living with HIV/AIDS who also abuse drugs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who also have a history of drug abuse.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV or 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 cognitive decline in patients with HIV and substance abuse issues.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using iPSC-derived models to study neurological diseases, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- Scripps Research Institute, the — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sanna, Pietro P — Scripps Research Institute, the
- Study coordinator: Sanna, Pietro P
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.