New imaging techniques to visualize HIV reservoirs in the brain related to substance abuse
Official title: Innovative In-Situ Imaging Techniques for the Visualization of CNS associated HIV reservoirs in the Context of Substance Abuse
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11160708 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how HIV hides in the brain, especially for people who use drugs, by using special imaging techniques to see where the virus is located and how much there is, so we can better understand its effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $544,545 |
| NIH project number | 5R61DA058397-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11160708 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV, particularly those who also have a history of substance abuse.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are HIV-negative or do not have a history of substance abuse may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to improve our understanding of HIV reservoirs in the central nervous system (CNS) by using advanced imaging techniques. It focuses on identifying the locations and sizes of these reservoirs, particularly in the context of substance abuse. By employing innovative optical tissue clearing and volumetric imaging methods, the study seeks to visualize HIV-infected cells in three-dimensional structures of brain tissue. This approach allows for high-resolution imaging that can reveal critical information about the distribution of HIV within the brain, which is often difficult to detect with traditional methods.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better strategies for targeting and eliminating HIV reservoirs in the brain, potentially improving treatment outcomes for patients with HIV.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques to study HIV reservoirs, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Andrews, Allison Michelle — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Andrews, Allison Michelle
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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.