Investigating how HIV, certain medications, and cocaine affect brain inflammation and mental health.

Role of the NLRP3 Inflammasome in Mediating Microglial Activation and Development of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms Induced by HIV, Antiretrovirals and Cocaine

NIH-funded research Old Dominion University · NIH-10878766

This study is looking at how HIV, its treatments, and cocaine use affect brain inflammation and mental health issues like anxiety and depression, to help find better ways to support people living with HIV.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOld Dominion University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Norfolk, United States)
Project IDNIH-10878766 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the impact of HIV and its treatments, along with cocaine use, on brain inflammation and neuropsychiatric symptoms such as anxiety and depression. It focuses on the role of the NLRP3 inflammasome, a component of the immune response in the brain, in mediating these effects. By studying how these factors interact, the research aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to neurological complications in people living with HIV. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatments for mental health issues associated with HIV.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals over 21 years old who are living with HIV and may be experiencing mental health challenges.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or who do not have neuropsychiatric symptoms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better management strategies for neuropsychiatric symptoms in individuals living with HIV.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting inflammatory pathways in the brain can lead to improvements in neuropsychiatric conditions, suggesting potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Norfolk, 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.