Understanding how HIV and opioid use affect brain cells

Revealing the single cell determinants of brain relevant to persistent HIV infection and opioid use disorder

['FUNDING_U01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-10897007

This study is looking at how HIV and opioid use affect certain brain cells and thinking skills in people living with HIV, hoping to find new ways to improve brain health and treatment options for those facing cognitive challenges.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_U01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10897007 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of HIV infection and opioid use on specific brain cell types, particularly focusing on cognitive functions in people living with HIV. By utilizing advanced techniques like single nucleus RNA sequencing, the study aims to create a detailed atlas of brain cell types in regions affected by both HIV and opioid use. The goal is to uncover how these factors influence brain function and immune responses, which could lead to better treatment strategies for cognitive impairments associated with HIV. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the interactions between HIV, opioids, and brain health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who also use opioids, whether legally or illegally.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV or opioid use disorder may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for cognitive impairments in individuals living with HIV and opioid use disorder.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of using single cell sequencing in this context is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding brain function and disease mechanisms.

Where this research is happening

LA JOLLA, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.