Targeting brain and immune systems to treat depression in people with HIV.
In Vivo Targeting of Neuroactive Steroid and Immune Networks for Depression in People Living with HIV.
This study is looking at how a hormone called pregnenolone might help reduce depression in people living with HIV, even when other treatments haven't worked, and it will involve 120 participants taking either pregnenolone or a placebo for 8 weeks while we check how their brains and moods change.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10914089 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the high rates of depression among people living with HIV, which persist despite standard treatments. It focuses on the role of neuroactive steroids, specifically pregnenolone, in alleviating depressive symptoms by enhancing brain function and reducing inflammation. The study will involve a double-blind trial with 120 participants, where some will receive pregnenolone and others a placebo for 8 weeks. Advanced imaging techniques will be used to assess changes in brain activity and immune responses related to mood improvement.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults living with HIV who are experiencing depression and are currently on antiretroviral therapy.
Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those who do not have depressive symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for depression in individuals living with HIV, potentially improving their overall quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using neuroactive steroids for treating depression, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mukerji, Shibani Sharon — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Mukerji, Shibani Sharon
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.