Investigating how HIV treatment affects bone and fat health

Bone and fat cross-talk in antiretroviral therapy (ART) treated HIV patients

NIH-funded research Rush University Medical Center · NIH-10903838

This study is looking at how certain HIV treatments can affect bone and fat health, helping us understand why some people might lose bone or gain fat while on these medications, so we can find better ways to support those living with HIV.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRush University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10903838 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the effects of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) on bone and fat health in individuals living with HIV. It aims to understand the hormonal communication between bone and fat tissues and how these interactions may lead to bone loss and fat gain in patients undergoing treatment. The study will utilize a combination of laboratory experiments, animal models, and human participant studies to investigate the mechanisms behind these comorbidities. By identifying the specific contributions of different antiretroviral medications, the research seeks to inform better treatment strategies for those affected.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are currently receiving combination antiretroviral therapy.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing antiretroviral therapy or those with other unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options that minimize bone loss and fat gain for patients living with HIV.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that understanding the hormonal interactions between bone and fat can lead to significant advancements in managing comorbidities in chronic diseases, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.