Understanding HIV reservoirs in opioid users

Sorting and Sequencing Latent Reservoirs in HIV+ Opioid Users

NIH-funded research J. David Gladstone Institutes · NIH-10930098

This study is looking at how HIV hides in the bodies of people who use opioids like morphine or heroin, to find out more about the special cells that keep the virus inactive, which could help improve treatment options for these individuals.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJ. David Gladstone Institutes NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10930098 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how HIV persists in the bodies of individuals who use opioids like morphine or heroin. By analyzing HIV-infected cells from various tissues, including the spleen, gut, and brain, the study aims to uncover unique characteristics of these cells that contribute to HIV latency. The researchers will employ a novel sorting and sequencing technique called FIND-Seq to identify specific genes and pathways that may influence the behavior of HIV in these patients. This work could lead to better strategies for treating HIV in opioid users, who often face additional health challenges.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are HIV-positive individuals who are also opioid users, particularly those with low adherence to antiretroviral therapies.

Not a fit: Patients who are HIV-negative or do not use opioids are unlikely to benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for HIV-positive opioid users, potentially enhancing their health outcomes and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding HIV latency through innovative techniques, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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 SyndromeAcquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency SyndromeAcquired 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.