Investigating the effects of 17α-estradiol and sex differences on cognitive disorders related to HIV and methamphetamine use
Official title: 17α-estradiol and sex-differences in HAND with methamphetamine
Funded at University of North Dakota · NIH-10913617 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a hormone and differences between men and women might affect brain health in people with HIV who also use methamphetamine, with the goal of finding new ways to help improve thinking and memory skills.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of North Dakota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Grand Forks, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $444,498 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA059280-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10913617 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who have experienced cognitive impairments and have a history of methamphetamine use.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HIV or a history of methamphetamine use may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how the hormone 17α-estradiol and sex differences influence HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) in individuals who misuse methamphetamine. It aims to understand the complex interactions between HIV proteins, antiretroviral therapy, and methamphetamine on brain function, particularly focusing on how these factors may lead to cognitive impairments. The study will examine the role of endolysosomes in neuronal health and how they may be affected by these exposures, potentially leading to reversible brain damage. By investigating these mechanisms, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic targets for improving cognitive function in affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for cognitive impairments in individuals living with HIV who also misuse methamphetamine.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific intersection of 17α-estradiol, HIV, and methamphetamine is relatively novel, there is growing evidence supporting the importance of sex differences in cognitive impairments related to HIV and substance use.
Where this research is happening
-
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Xuesong — University of North Dakota
- Study coordinator: Chen, Xuesong
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.