Understanding how all viruses affect HIV/AIDS progression

Contribution of the Virome to HIV/AIDS pathogenesis

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10415196

This study is looking at how different viruses in the body might affect the progression of HIV/AIDS, especially in people who use drugs, by analyzing samples from patients to better understand these interactions.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10415196 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the entire collection of viruses, known as the 'Virome', in the progression of HIV/AIDS, particularly in relation to drug use. Using a novel deep sequencing platform called 'ViroFind', the study aims to identify and analyze both known and potentially undiscovered viruses in the brain, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and blood of HIV/AIDS patients. By enriching viral sequences significantly, this approach seeks to fill critical knowledge gaps regarding how these viruses contribute to the disease's pathogenesis. Patients will be involved through the analysis of banked clinical samples, providing insights into the complex interactions between HIV and other viral infections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include HIV/AIDS patients, particularly those who also use drugs.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HIV or do not have a history of drug use may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights that improve treatment strategies for HIV/AIDS patients by understanding the impact of the Virome.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of studying the Virome in relation to HIV/AIDS is relatively novel, previous research has shown promise in understanding viral interactions in other contexts.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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 Immunodeficiency Syndrome
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.