Investigating how immune cell metabolism affects depression in people with HIV
Official title: The role of monocyte metabolism and migration in inflammation-related reward circuit deficits and symptoms of anhedonia in people with HIV
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11077821 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells might contribute to feelings of depression in people with HIV, and it will explore whether an anti-inflammatory medication called baricitinib can help improve mood and motivation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $146,986 |
| NIH project number | 5K01MH136861-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11077821 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who experience symptoms of depression or anhedonia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HIV or who do not experience depressive symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of monocytes, a type of immune cell, in causing depressive symptoms in individuals living with HIV. It aims to explore how these cells become activated and migrate to the brain, potentially leading to inflammation that affects mood and motivation. The study will utilize innovative techniques, including a model of the blood-brain barrier and metabolic assessments, to identify new therapeutic targets. Participants may receive treatment with the anti-inflammatory drug baricitinib as part of the investigation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that alleviate depressive symptoms in people living with HIV.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting inflammation to improve mental health outcomes in similar patient populations.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bekhbat, Mandakh — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Bekhbat, Mandakh
Related research
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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.