Investigating the effects of cannabis use on HIV and brain health
Cannabis, HIV and Mental Processing Systems (CHAMPS)
This study is looking at how using cannabis regularly might affect people living with HIV, especially in terms of their immune system and brain health, by comparing those who use cannabis with those who don’t and also with people who don’t have HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11083678 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores how regular cannabis use affects individuals living with HIV, particularly focusing on immune activation and brain health. The study will involve collecting detailed data on immune markers, brain structure, and cognitive performance from both HIV-positive individuals who use cannabis and those who do not, as well as HIV-negative controls. By comparing these groups, the research aims to uncover the potential impacts of cannabis on inflammation and cognitive function in the context of HIV treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living with HIV who are either regular cannabis users or non-users, as well as HIV-negative individuals who use cannabis.
Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV and do not use cannabis may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of how cannabis use influences health outcomes in people living with HIV, potentially informing treatment strategies.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been some research on cannabis and HIV, this study employs novel methodologies that have not been extensively tested in this specific context.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ances, Beau M — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Ances, Beau M
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 below.