Role of proBDNF and p75NTR in HAND-related neuron damage
Official title: Role of proBNDF and p75NTR in HIV-mediated Axonal/Dendritic Degeneration
Funded at Georgetown University · NIH-11392876 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study at Georgetown University is exploring how HIV proteins may harm nerve connections in the brain, contributing to HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND).
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Georgetown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2012 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $613,450 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS079172-13 |
| Project ID | NIH-11392876 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Not applicable for this preclinical/grant-focused work; human participants are not enrolled in this grant.
✕Less likely to help
This grant does not involve direct patient participation or clinical testing of therapies.
What this research studies
Researchers are looking at how HIV's gp120 protein might trigger nerve-cell changes by affecting proBDNF and the p75NTR receptor, leading to synapse loss. The project uses animal models to study the cellular pathways that cause dendritic simplification and impaired synapses in HAND. By understanding these mechanisms, the team aims to identify potential points for future therapies to protect brain connections in people living with HIV.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, findings could guide new strategies to prevent or reduce HAND by preserving synaptic connections in the brain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work in gp120 models has shown gp120 can impair synapses, supporting the relevance of this approach.
Where this research is happening
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Georgetown University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mocchetti, Italo — Georgetown University
- Study coordinator: Mocchetti, Italo
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.