Investigating how opioid treatment affects immune health in HIV-infected patients

Effects of mu-opiate receptor engagement on microbial translocation and residual immune activation in HIV-infected, ART suppressed opioid use disorder patents initiating medication-assisted treatment

NIH-funded research Wistar Institute · NIH-10654008

This study is looking at how different opioid treatments, like methadone, affect the immune system in people with HIV who are also dealing with opioid use disorder and starting medication-assisted treatment, with the goal of finding better ways to support their health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWistar Institute NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10654008 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research examines the effects of opioid receptor engagement on immune system function in HIV-infected individuals who are receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). It focuses on patients with opioid use disorder who are starting medication-assisted treatment, specifically looking at how different types of opioid treatments (like methadone) influence immune activation and microbial translocation. By analyzing the relationship between opioid treatment and immune health, the study aims to provide insights that could improve treatment strategies for this vulnerable population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are HIV-infected individuals who are also diagnosed with opioid use disorder and are initiating medication-assisted treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who are not HIV-infected or do not have opioid use disorder may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment protocols for HIV-infected patients with opioid use disorder, enhancing their immune health and overall well-being.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that opioid treatment can significantly impact immune function in HIV-infected populations, suggesting that this study's approach is built on established findings.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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 SyndromeAcquired Immuno-Deficiency SyndromeAcquired Immunologic Deficiency SyndromeAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
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.