Understanding how HIV and opioids affect immune cell activation
Mechanisms of Persistent Inflammasome Activation in Myeloid Cells
['FUNDING_R01'] · BOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS · NIH-11195669
This study is looking at how HIV and opioid use affect immune cells in the brain, hoping to understand why people with both conditions often experience ongoing inflammation and health problems.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11195669 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the persistent activation of immune cells in individuals living with HIV, particularly focusing on how this condition interacts with opioid use disorder. By studying primary human microglia, which are immune cells in the brain, the research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that lead to increased inflammation and progression of HIV-related diseases. The approach involves creating specialized cell cultures to analyze how HIV infection and opioid exposure influence immune responses. This could provide insights into the chronic inflammatory issues faced by patients with both HIV and opioid use disorder.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV, particularly those who also have a history of opioid use disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV or opioid use disorder may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for individuals living with HIV and opioid use disorder, potentially reducing inflammation and associated health complications.
How similar studies have performed: While some studies have explored related topics in animal models, this research aims to address a significant gap in understanding the interaction between HIV and opioid use in human immune cells, making it a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- BOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GUMMULURU, SURYARAM — BOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS
- Study coordinator: GUMMULURU, SURYARAM
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.
Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus