Investigating pain mechanisms and treatments in HIV patients

Chronic Widespread Pain in HIV: Novel Mechanisms and Therapeutics

NIH-funded research Florida International University · NIH-11146595

This study is looking at why some people with HIV experience ongoing pain all over their bodies, and it hopes to find new ways to help relieve that pain and improve their daily lives.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionFlorida International University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Miami, United States)
Project IDNIH-11146595 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding chronic widespread pain (CWP) in individuals living with HIV, a condition that affects a significant number of patients despite effective viral treatment. The study aims to identify the biological mechanisms behind CWP, particularly the role of cell-free heme and its impact on pain-related opioid levels in the body. By exploring these mechanisms, the research seeks to develop new therapeutic strategies that could alleviate pain and improve the quality of life for HIV patients. The approach includes both pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods to address this complex issue.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who experience chronic widespread pain.

Not a fit: Patients without HIV or those who do not experience chronic pain may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that effectively reduce chronic pain in HIV patients, enhancing their overall quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the biological mechanisms of pain can lead to effective treatments, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Miami, 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 Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency SyndromeAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virusaddictive disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.