Investigating how HIV proteins affect amphetamine addiction

The Role of HIV Proteins in Psychostimulant Abuse

NIH-funded research University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11104302

This study is looking at how HIV might affect the way the brain responds to amphetamines, which could make addiction worse, and it's for people living with HIV and those struggling with amphetamine use.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11104302 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the complex relationship between HIV infection and amphetamine use disorder (AUD). It aims to understand how HIV proteins influence the brain's response to amphetamines, potentially worsening addiction behaviors. By studying both animal models and human behaviors, the research seeks to uncover the molecular mechanisms that link HIV and amphetamine use, which could lead to better treatment strategies for those affected. The findings may provide insights into how HIV impacts dopamine function and addiction progression.

Who could benefit from this research

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

Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV or a history of amphetamine use may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for individuals struggling with both HIV and amphetamine addiction.

How similar studies have performed: While the relationship between HIV and addiction has been noted, this specific investigation into the molecular mechanisms is novel and has not been extensively studied.

Where this research is happening

Birmingham, 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 Virusaddictive disorder
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.