Understanding how HIV and Methamphetamine affect brain inflammation
Official title: Molecular Pathways of Innate Immunity and Substance Abuse in NeuroHIV
Funded at Rush University Medical Center · NIH-10933000 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how HIV and meth use affect brain inflammation and thinking skills in people living with HIV/AIDS, with the goal of finding ways to help improve brain health for those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rush University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $504,268 |
| NIH project number | 5R61DA058348-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10933000 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV/AIDS who are experiencing neurocognitive disorders and have a history of Methamphetamine use.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HIV/AIDS or who do not have a history of Methamphetamine use may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of HIV and Methamphetamine (Meth) on brain inflammation and cognitive disorders in people living with HIV/AIDS. It aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that activate immune responses in brain cells, particularly focusing on microglia and astrocytes. By studying how these cells communicate and respond to HIV and Meth, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve brain health in affected individuals. The study utilizes advanced techniques such as gene expression analysis and microscopy to explore these interactions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that alleviate neurocognitive disorders in individuals living with HIV who also abuse Meth.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of inflammation in neurocognitive disorders related to HIV, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Rush University Medical Center
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Inacio Mamede, Joao Filipe — Rush University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Inacio Mamede, Joao Filipe
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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.