Understanding how a specific protein affects brain inflammation in older adults with HIV

Cell-specific roles for PERK in HIV-induced neuroinflammation

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11084922

This study is looking at how a protein called PERK might cause brain inflammation and affect thinking and mental health in older adults with HIV, even when their treatment is working well, with the hope of finding ways to help improve their quality of life.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11084922 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a protein called PERK in causing inflammation in the brain of older adults living with HIV. It aims to identify how PERK contributes to neurocognitive impairment and mental health issues despite effective HIV treatment. By studying brain samples and the effects of PERK on various cell types, the research seeks to find predictive markers for those at risk and explore potential therapeutic interventions. The goal is to improve the quality of life for older adults with HIV by addressing cognitive and mental health challenges.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who are living with HIV and experiencing cognitive or mental health challenges.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or those without HIV may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better identification and treatment options for neurocognitive impairment in older adults with HIV.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of stress response proteins in neurocognitive health, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.