Protecting brain cells in people with HIV using a natural brain chemical
Role of chemokines in neuronal function and survival
['FUNDING_R37'] · DREXEL UNIVERSITY · NIH-11304508
This research looks at whether a natural brain signal (CXCL12 acting on the CXCR4 receptor) helps protect nerve cells and ease thinking and memory problems in adults living with HIV, especially those who use opioids.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R37'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | DREXEL UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11304508 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient perspective, researchers are studying how the CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling pathway keeps neurons healthy and prevents loss of tiny connections linked to thinking problems in HIV. They use animal models, advanced 2-photon imaging, and molecular experiments to see how HIV proteins and opioid drugs disrupt this protective signal. Prior work by the team showed that restoring CXCL12/CXCR4 can rescue neuron structure and cognitive flexibility in animals, and this project digs into the mechanisms behind that effect. The aim is to identify targets or approaches that could become add-on treatments for HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults (21+) living with HIV who experience cognitive or memory difficulties, especially those who currently use or have a history of opioid use, would be the most relevant candidates for future trials stemming from this work.
Not a fit: People without HIV, children, or individuals whose cognitive issues are caused by non‑HIV conditions are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal drug targets or therapies that protect the brain and reduce HIV-associated cognitive and memory problems, particularly for opioid users.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies, including work from this research team, have shown CXCL12/CXCR4 can protect neurons and reverse structural and cognitive deficits in models of HIV, but translating these findings into human treatments remains largely untested.
Where this research is happening
PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES
- DREXEL UNIVERSITY — PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MEUCCI, OLIMPIA — DREXEL UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: MEUCCI, OLIMPIA
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.
Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus