Investigating how HIV treatment and cocaine use affect brain function.
cART, neuroHIV, cocaine abuse and the mPFC neuron/astrocyte dysfunction
This study is looking at how HIV and cocaine use affect brain health and thinking skills, especially in people living with HIV who are on treatment, to better understand how their medication might impact their brain function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rush University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10898000 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders (HAND) and how they are influenced by combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) and cocaine use. It examines the effects of cART on brain neurons, particularly in the medial prefrontal cortex, which is crucial for cognition and addiction. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which cART may contribute to neurotoxicity and cognitive decline in individuals living with HIV, especially those who also struggle with cocaine use disorders.
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 also have a history of cocaine use.
Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or do not have cognitive impairments related to HIV may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for cognitive impairments in people living with HIV.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that neurotoxicity related to HIV and substance use can significantly impact cognitive function, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Rush University Medical Center — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hu, Xiu-Ti — Rush University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Hu, Xiu-Ti
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 below.