Investigating how opioid use affects gene expression in the brain of HIV-infected rodents
Official title: Single nucleus gene expression in moderate and compulsive opioid self-administration in a rodent model of HIV
Funded at Scripps Research Institute, the · NIH-10915539 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how using opioids affects the brain in people with HIV by examining changes in brain cells, which could help us understand why some individuals experience memory and thinking problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Scripps Research Institute, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,348,437 |
| NIH project number | 5U01DA058399-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10915539 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who also have a history of opioid use or addiction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HIV or a history of opioid use may not benefit from the findings of this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the molecular changes in the brain caused by the interaction of opioid abuse and HIV infection. By analyzing gene expression at the single-cell level in specific brain regions, researchers aim to identify key genes that may contribute to neurodegeneration and cognitive impairment in individuals with HIV who misuse opioids. The study utilizes advanced techniques like single nucleus RNA sequencing and validated systems biology strategies to explore these interactions in rodent models. The findings could provide insights into the biological mechanisms underlying the effects of opioid use in the context of HIV.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for improving cognitive health in HIV-infected individuals who struggle with opioid addiction.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using single nucleus RNA sequencing in this context is relatively novel, similar studies have shown promising results in understanding the effects of drug abuse on brain function.
Where this research is happening
-
Scripps Research Institute, the
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sanna, Pietro P — Scripps Research Institute, the
- Study coordinator: Sanna, Pietro P
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.