Targeting specific immune cells in the brain to fight HIV infection
Targeting SIV macrophage reservoirs in the CNS by CSF1R inhibition
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the brain can hold onto HIV and cause ongoing problems, even when you're on treatment, and it aims to find a way to target these cells to help improve brain health for people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tulane University of Louisiana NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Orleans, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10846020 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain immune cells in the brain, known as myeloid cells, can harbor HIV and contribute to ongoing infection and neurocognitive disorders despite treatment. The study focuses on inhibiting the colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R) to target these infected cells, which may help eliminate the virus from the central nervous system. By understanding the role of these cells in HIV persistence, the research aims to develop new therapeutic strategies that could improve outcomes for patients with HIV-related brain complications.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who experience neurocognitive disorders or have a history of HIV-related brain complications.
Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or do not have any neurological complications related to HIV may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that effectively reduce HIV infection in the brain, potentially improving cognitive function and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have performed: While targeting myeloid cells in the brain is a relatively novel approach, preliminary findings suggest that similar strategies may hold promise in addressing HIV persistence.
Where this research is happening
New Orleans, United States
- Tulane University of Louisiana — New Orleans, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kim, Woong-Ki — Tulane University of Louisiana
- Study coordinator: Kim, Woong-Ki
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.