Understanding how a specific protein affects brain inflammation in older adults with HIV
Official title: Cell-specific roles for PERK in HIV-induced neuroinflammation
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11084922 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $745,822 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH136841-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11084922 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who are living with HIV and experiencing cognitive or mental health challenges.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 or those without HIV may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jordan-Sciutto, Kelly L — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Jordan-Sciutto, Kelly L
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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.