Investigating how fentanyl and HIV affect brain cells and their interactions.
Official title: Opioid and non-opioid receptor mechanisms in neurons and glia underlying fentanyl and HIV comorbidity in the striatum
Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-11109684 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how fentanyl, a strong pain medication, interacts with HIV in the brain and affects brain cells, with the goal of finding better ways to help people who have both conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $661,789 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA060724-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11109684 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living with HIV who are also using opioids, particularly fentanyl.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by HIV or do not use opioids may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the complex interactions between fentanyl, a powerful opioid, and HIV in the brain, particularly focusing on how these substances affect neurons and glial cells in the striatum. The study examines the role of both opioid and non-opioid receptors in mediating the effects of fentanyl, including its impact on neuronal activity and inflammation. By using advanced animal models, the research aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to neuroHIV and HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders, which could lead to better understanding and treatment options for affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for individuals with HIV who are also struggling with opioid use, potentially reducing cognitive decline and enhancing quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific combination of fentanyl and HIV in this context is novel, previous research has shown that understanding receptor mechanisms can lead to significant advancements in treatment strategies.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hauser, Kurt F — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Hauser, Kurt F
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.