Investigating how HIV proteins and cocaine affect brain inflammation and cell death.

Molecular interplay of HIV Tat, cocaine, and cART in microglial pyroptosis: Role of NLRP3 inflammasome

NIH-funded research University of Nebraska Medical Center · NIH-11055727

This study is looking at how HIV proteins, cocaine use, and HIV medications affect inflammation and cell health in the brain, with the goal of finding better ways to treat brain-related issues for people living with HIV.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Nebraska Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Omaha, United States)
Project IDNIH-11055727 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the complex interactions between HIV proteins, cocaine use, and antiretroviral therapy in causing inflammation and cell death in the brain. It focuses on understanding how these factors contribute to neuroinflammation, particularly through the activation of microglial cells and the NLRP3 inflammasome. By studying these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets to mitigate neurological complications associated with HIV. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatments for HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living with HIV who are also experiencing neurological issues and may have a history of cocaine use.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or do not have neurological complications related to HIV may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better management strategies for neurological complications in HIV patients, potentially improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting neuroinflammation can lead to significant improvements in managing HIV-associated neurological disorders, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Omaha, 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 2026-06-10 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.