Understanding how cannabinoids affect HIV-1 infection and inflammation

Elucidating the mechanisms of cannabinoids on HIV-1 infection and inflammasome activation

NIH-funded research Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-10889168

This study is looking at how cannabinoids might help reduce inflammation in people living with HIV by exploring their effects on certain immune cells, and it aims to find new ways to manage inflammation even when HIV treatment is working.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10889168 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of cannabinoids on HIV-1 infection and the associated inflammation in people living with HIV. It aims to understand how cannabinoids can modulate the NLRP3 inflammasome, which plays a significant role in chronic inflammation despite effective anti-retroviral therapy. The study will utilize innovative techniques, including an ex vivo human tonsil infection model and advanced imaging to analyze cellular responses to cannabinoid treatment. By identifying the specific cell types affected and the inflammatory signaling pathways involved, this research seeks to provide insights into potential therapeutic strategies for managing inflammation in HIV.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV-1 who experience chronic inflammation and may use or be interested in cannabinoid treatments.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV-1 or those who do not experience chronic inflammation related to their condition may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches that reduce inflammation and improve health outcomes for individuals living with HIV.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research is novel, there is emerging evidence suggesting cannabinoids may have beneficial effects on inflammation, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.