Understanding Brain Cell Growth in People with HIV and Methamphetamine Exposure

Impact of miRNAs on adult neurogenesis following exposure to methamphetamine and HIV-1 Infection

NIH-funded research University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-11325939

This research explores how HIV and methamphetamine use together might change how new brain cells grow, aiming to understand related thinking problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Coral Gables, United States)
Project IDNIH-11325939 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Many people living with HIV also use substances, which can worsen brain-related issues like memory and thinking problems. This project looks closely at how HIV and methamphetamine might affect the growth of new brain cells, which are important for brain health. Researchers are focusing on tiny molecules called miRNAs and how they might control brain cell movement and communication between brain barriers and new cells. They hope to uncover new ways that these factors contribute to brain changes seen in individuals with both HIV and methamphetamine exposure.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This research is relevant to individuals living with HIV who have a history of methamphetamine use and experience neurocognitive challenges.

Not a fit: Patients without HIV or methamphetamine exposure, or those without neurocognitive issues, would not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for brain and thinking problems in people with HIV who have also used methamphetamine.

How similar studies have performed: The proposal builds on significant discoveries about how chronic methamphetamine and HIV impact brain cell growth, suggesting some foundational knowledge exists.

Where this research is happening

Coral Gables, 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.