Understanding how HIV affects intestinal stem cells
Mechanisms of HIV-associated epithelialintestinal stem cell (ISC) dysfunction
This study is looking at how HIV affects the gut by causing inflammation and problems with the cells that help keep the intestines healthy, and it's for people living with HIV, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, to better understand how the virus impacts their gut health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10884314 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of HIV on the gastrointestinal tract, focusing on how the virus leads to inflammation and dysfunction of intestinal stem cells (ISCs). By examining tissue samples from individuals in sub-Saharan Africa, the study aims to characterize ISC behavior in both HIV-infected and uninfected individuals. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques to explore the molecular pathways that contribute to gut barrier impairment, which is a significant issue for those living with HIV. This work seeks to fill critical knowledge gaps regarding the long-term effects of HIV on gut health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living with HIV, particularly those from sub-Saharan Africa where the disease burden is high.
Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HIV or those with unrelated gastrointestinal conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment strategies for gut-related complications in HIV patients.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been some research on HIV's effects on the gut, this study's specific focus on intestinal stem cells and molecular pathways is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kwon, Douglas — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Kwon, Douglas
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.