The effects of methamphetamine on HIV in the brain

Methamphetamine, HIV integration and latency in the brain

NIH-funded research San Diego Biomedical Research Institute · NIH-10932406

This study is looking at how methamphetamine affects the way HIV hides in brain cells, especially in immune cells called microglia, to help find better treatment options for people living with HIV.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSan Diego Biomedical Research Institute NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Diego, United States)
Project IDNIH-10932406 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how methamphetamine, a stimulant drug, affects the integration and latency of HIV in the brain. It focuses on understanding the relationship between chromatin organization and HIV persistence in brain cells, particularly in microglia, which are immune cells in the brain. The study will utilize various models, starting with human cell lines and progressing to animal models, to explore how methamphetamine influences HIV integration and the neurological consequences for individuals living with HIV. By examining these interactions, the research aims to uncover potential pathways that could improve treatment strategies for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who have a history of methamphetamine use.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV or do not use methamphetamine may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for individuals living with HIV who also use methamphetamine.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific interactions between methamphetamine and HIV in the brain are less explored, related research has shown success in understanding drug effects on viral persistence in other contexts.

Where this research is happening

San Diego, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.