Understanding how drug use affects the immune system's ability to fight HIV-1
Defining the impact of drug use on immune function and fitness against HIV-1
This study is looking at how using opioids and other drugs affects the immune system in people who inject drugs, especially how it impacts their ability to fight off infections like HIV-1, with the goal of finding better ways to help and treat those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11078320 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of opioid use disorder and polysubstance use disorder on the immune system, particularly in individuals who inject drugs. It aims to understand how these conditions alter immune responses and the body's ability to combat infections like HIV-1. The study will utilize advanced screening methods to explore the cellular and molecular impacts of drug use on immune function, which could inform better prevention and treatment strategies for HIV-1. By examining the lived experiences of affected individuals, the research seeks to provide insights into the broader implications of drug use on health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who inject drugs and have opioid use disorder or polysubstance use disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who do not use drugs or have no history of opioid or polysubstance use may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for HIV-1 among individuals with substance use disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the immune response in drug users can lead to significant advancements in treatment strategies, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shalek, Alex K — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Shalek, Alex K
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 below.