NIH-funded research Career grant

Investigating the role of LRRK2 in immune response to SIV in monkeys

Official title: Role of LRRK2 in immunity in a nonhuman primate model of SIV

Funded at Tulane University of Louisiana · NIH-10888237 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a protein called LRRK2 impacts the immune system's response to a virus similar to HIV, using monkeys to help us understand how it might relate to brain inflammation and diseases like Parkinson's, with the goal of finding new ways to boost the immune response in people dealing with viral infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTulane University of Louisiana
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Orleans, United States)
Project startAugust 1, 2023
Project endJuly 31, 2028
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$202,754
NIH project number5K01OD036106-02
Project IDNIH-10888237 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who may experience neurocognitive impairments or are at risk for neurodegenerative diseases.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have HIV or related viral infections may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research explores how the LRRK2 protein affects the immune response to SIV, a virus similar to HIV, using a nonhuman primate model. The study aims to understand the relationship between LRRK2, neuroinflammation, and viral infections, particularly focusing on how SIV infection may influence LRRK2 expression and its implications for neurodegenerative diseases. By examining these interactions, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve immune responses in individuals affected by viral infections.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance immune responses in patients with HIV and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of immune factors like LRRK2 in viral infections and neuroinflammation, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

  • Tulane University of Louisiana
    New Orleans, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Vail, Krystal — Tulane University of Louisiana
  • Study coordinator: Vail, Krystal

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.