Investigating how HIV and cocaine affect brain immune cells

Multimodal profiling of microglia during HIV infection and substance use disorder

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10933539

This study is looking at how HIV and cocaine use affect certain immune cells in the brain, with the goal of finding new ways to help people living with HIV avoid long-term brain problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10933539 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the effects of HIV infection and substance use disorders, particularly cocaine, on immune cells in the brain called microglia and macrophages. It aims to understand how HIV expression in these cells may lead to long-term neuropsychiatric damage, especially in individuals living with HIV. By examining the interplay between HIV and cocaine, the study seeks to identify potential new treatment targets that could improve patient outcomes. The research employs advanced techniques to profile these immune cells and their inflammatory states in response to HIV and cocaine exposure.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who also have a history of cocaine use or substance use disorders.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV or substance use disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for neuropsychiatric issues in patients with HIV and substance use disorders.

How similar studies have performed: While some research has indicated the impact of cocaine on HIV dynamics, this study aims to fill significant knowledge gaps, making it a novel investigation.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.