Investigating how HIV proteins and opiates affect brain cell communication.
Official title: HIV Tat and Opiate-mediated aberrations in glial-neuronal crosstalk: Implications for the role of extracellular RNA in HAND
Funded at University of Nebraska Medical Center · NIH-11117148 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how HIV proteins and opiate use affect the way brain cells talk to each other, which might help explain why some people with HIV have trouble thinking clearly, and it aims to find new ways to help improve brain health for those living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nebraska Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Omaha, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $472,930 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA060755-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11117148 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living with HIV who also have a history of opiate use and are experiencing cognitive difficulties.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not living with HIV or do not have a history of opiate use may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of HIV proteins and opiate use on the communication between brain cells, particularly focusing on how these factors contribute to neurocognitive impairments in individuals living with HIV. The study examines the role of extracellular RNA and microRNAs released by astrocytes, a type of brain cell, in response to HIV and opiate exposure. By analyzing these interactions, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that lead to neuronal injury and cognitive decline in HIV-infected individuals, which could inform future therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for neurocognitive impairments in people living with HIV, enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of HIV on brain function, but this specific investigation into the combined effects of HIV proteins and opiates is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Nebraska Medical Center
Omaha, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Buch, Shilpa J. — University of Nebraska Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Buch, Shilpa J.
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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.