Understanding Brain Inflammation and Mental Health Challenges in People with HIV
Official title: Role of the NLRP3 Inflammasome in Mediating Microglial Activation and Development of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms Induced by HIV, Antiretrovirals and Cocaine
Funded at Old Dominion University · NIH-11127636 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project explores how brain inflammation contributes to depression and anxiety in people living with HIV, especially when antiretroviral medications and cocaine use are also present.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Old Dominion University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Norfolk, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2021 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $375,999 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA054826-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11127636 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
This research is relevant to adults aged 21 and older living with HIV who experience neuropsychiatric symptoms like depression and anxiety, especially those who may also use antiretroviral medications or cocaine.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HIV or related neuropsychiatric symptoms would not directly benefit from this specific research.
What this research studies
This research aims to uncover why individuals with HIV often experience mental health issues like depression and anxiety, even with effective treatment. We are focusing on how specific brain cells, called microglia, become overly active and cause damage, particularly when exposed to HIV proteins, antiretroviral drugs, and cocaine. Our team is investigating a key pathway known as the NLRP3 inflammasome, which appears to play a central role in this brain inflammation. By understanding these detailed mechanisms, we hope to identify new strategies to protect brain health and improve the mental well-being of those affected by HIV.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that reduce brain inflammation and improve mental health for people living with HIV.
How similar studies have gone: While the role of inflammation in HIV-associated neurological disorders is recognized, this specific focus on the NLRP3 inflammasome's combined role with antiretrovirals and cocaine represents a novel and less explored area.
Where this research is happening
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Old Dominion University
Norfolk, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guo, Minglei — Old Dominion University
- Study coordinator: Guo, Minglei
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.