Investigating how tau protein affects brain function in people with HIV and opioid use disorder

pTau-related neuron and cognitive dysfunction in opioid-HIV comorbidity: Longitudinal and functional studies

['FUNDING_R01'] · VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY · NIH-11067820

This study is looking at how a protein called tau might affect thinking and memory in people with HIV who also use opioids, to see if reducing tau could help improve their brain health and cognitive skills over time.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (RICHMOND, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11067820 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the relationship between abnormal tau protein and cognitive dysfunction in individuals living with HIV who also have opioid use disorder. It aims to clarify whether the accumulation of phosphorylated tau protein contributes to cognitive decline and neuron dysfunction in these patients. By conducting longitudinal and functional studies, the research will explore the effects of tau on brain health and cognitive abilities over time. The findings could help identify potential therapeutic targets for improving cognitive function in affected individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who also have a diagnosis of opioid use disorder.

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

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cognitive decline in patients with HIV and opioid use disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that tau protein plays a significant role in cognitive disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

RICHMOND, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.