Investigating the endocannabinoid system's role in HIV-related neuropathic pain
Official title: Endocannabinoid system and HIV-related neuropathic pain
Funded at University of Texas Rio Grande Valley · NIH-10852472 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the body's natural system for processing cannabis might help manage chronic nerve pain in people living with HIV, especially those who are on treatment, to see if it can make a difference in their pain relief.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Rio Grande Valley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Edinburg, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $501,177 |
| NIH project number | 7R21DA053824-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10852472 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who experience chronic neuropathic pain.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HIV or do not experience neuropathic pain may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how the endocannabinoid system may influence chronic neuropathic pain experienced by individuals living with HIV. It aims to determine whether this system is functional and effective in managing pain in HIV-positive patients, particularly in the context of current anti-retroviral therapies. The study employs a multidisciplinary approach, utilizing behavioral assessments, pharmacological interventions, and advanced biochemical techniques to gather comprehensive data on the interaction between cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system in these patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies for individuals suffering from HIV-related neuropathic pain.
How similar studies have gone: While there is growing interest in the use of cannabis for pain management in HIV patients, this specific investigation into the endocannabinoid system's role in HIV-related neuropathic pain is novel and has not been extensively studied.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Benamar, Khalid — University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Study coordinator: Benamar, Khalid
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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.