Investigating how HIV and cocaine use affect brain circuits and immune responses
Official title: Corticolimbic circuit and neuroimmune mechanisms of comorbid HIV and cocaine use
Funded at Drexel University · NIH-10924743 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how HIV and cocaine use affect the brain and immune system, with the hope of finding better treatments for people dealing with both issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Drexel University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $78,784 |
| NIH project number | 1F32DA060768-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10924743 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who also have a history of cocaine use or cocaine use disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HIV or a history of cocaine use are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the complex interactions between HIV and cocaine use disorders, focusing on how these factors influence brain circuits and immune responses. By using animal models, the study aims to identify specific cellular mechanisms that contribute to increased drug-seeking behavior and cognitive dysfunction in individuals living with HIV. The ultimate goal is to develop targeted treatments that can help those affected by both HIV and cocaine use disorders, particularly since current treatment options are limited. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how these conditions interact and affect treatment efficacy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies for individuals living with HIV who also struggle with cocaine use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While the interaction between HIV and cocaine use is a critical area of study, this specific approach to understanding their combined effects on brain mechanisms is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Drexel University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Namba, Mark D — Drexel University
- Study coordinator: Namba, Mark D
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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.