Understanding how HIV affects the gut lining
Molecular mechanisms underlying HIV related intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction
This work explores how HIV infection harms the protective barrier in the intestines, which can lead to other health problems for people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11124852 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that HIV can damage the gut lining, allowing bacteria to leak into the bloodstream. This leakage causes ongoing immune activation and inflammation throughout the body, even for those on effective HIV medication. This chronic inflammation contributes to serious health issues like heart disease, memory problems, and bone issues. Our goal is to uncover the specific ways HIV disrupts the gut barrier at a molecular level. By understanding these mechanisms, we hope to find new ways to prevent or treat these long-term complications.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for people living with HIV who experience chronic inflammation and related health issues, even while on antiretroviral therapy.
Not a fit: Patients without HIV infection or those not experiencing chronic inflammation related to HIV may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that specifically target the gut barrier to reduce chronic inflammation and prevent related health problems in people living with HIV.
How similar studies have performed: While the link between HIV, gut dysfunction, and inflammation is recognized, this particular approach aims to uncover novel molecular pathways, building on existing knowledge but exploring new specifics.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Parkos, Charles a — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Parkos, Charles a
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.