Oral bacteria and cognition in people with HIV who use cannabis
Official title: Investigating the effect of oral microbiome on cognition in HIV-infected chronic cannabis users
Funded at Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11365002 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain oral bacteria linked to cannabis use might affect thinking skills in people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $686,155 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA055523-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11365002 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with HIV infection who are chronic cannabis users and have no contraindicating conditions for study participation.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals who do not have HIV or do not use cannabis chronically may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
In people living with HIV who regularly use cannabis, researchers will explore whether specific oral bacteria, like Actinomyces species, relate to changes in cognitive performance. The project combines clinical assessments of cognition with preclinical models to understand potential mechanisms. By examining the oral microbiome and its possible impact on the brain, the study aims to uncover biologic pathways that could influence HIV-associated cognitive changes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could identify targets for improving cognitive health in HIV patients who use cannabis.
How similar studies have gone: Preceding research has linked oral bacteria to systemic effects, but direct links to HIV-related cognition are still being explored.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fitting, Sylvia — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Fitting, Sylvia
Related research
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Oral Bacteria, Cannabis Use, and Thinking Skills in People with HIV
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Exploring how oral bacteria from cannabis use affects brain function in people with HIV
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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.