Understanding how cannabis use affects depression in young people living with HIV.

The Neural Underpinnings of Depression and Cannabis Use in Young PLWH

NIH-funded research University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-11047247

This study is looking at how using cannabis might affect feelings of depression in young adults aged 18-34 who are living with HIV, and it aims to understand how this relates to the way the brain processes rewards and pain, which could help find better ways to treat depression.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Coral Gables, United States)
Project IDNIH-11047247 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between cannabis use and depression in young adults aged 18-34 who are living with HIV. It focuses on how reward and pain circuits in the brain are influenced by cannabis and how these factors contribute to depression. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to identify the brain mechanisms involved in these conditions, which may help in developing better treatment strategies. Participants may undergo brain imaging and assessments to explore these connections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are young adults aged 18-34 who are living with HIV and experiencing depression or cannabis use.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or who do not have issues related to depression or cannabis use may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for depression and substance use in young people living with HIV.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of cannabis on mental health, but this specific approach focusing on young adults with HIV is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Coral Gables, 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.