Investigating how HIV affects Alzheimer's disease through tiny particles in the brain
Official title: Extracellular vesicles in AD-like pathology in HIV and its potential therapeutics
Funded at University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr · NIH-10788457 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how HIV might speed up aging and lead to Alzheimer's disease in people aged 38-60, by examining brain tissues and tiny particles that could harm brain health, with the hope of finding new ways to help manage Alzheimer's symptoms for those living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $192,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG081140-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10788457 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 38-60 living with HIV, particularly those experiencing cognitive decline or neurodegenerative symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are HIV-negative or those who do not have any cognitive impairments related to aging may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between HIV and Alzheimer's disease by examining brain tissues from individuals living with HIV aged 38-60. It focuses on how HIV may accelerate aging and contribute to neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's. The study looks at the role of extracellular vesicles, which are small particles released by cells, in carrying inflammatory signals that could worsen brain health. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic approaches to mitigate Alzheimer's symptoms in this population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve brain health and cognitive function in people living with HIV who are at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have indicated a link between HIV and neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this research could build on established findings, although the specific focus on extracellular vesicles in this context is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kumar, Santosh — University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Kumar, Santosh
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.