Understanding how immune cells move to the brain in HIV/AIDS patients with cryptococcal infections
A murine model for HIV/AIDS associated cryptococcal IRIS: characterizing the molecular mechanism of CD4+ T cell migration to the brain
This study is looking at how certain immune cells move to the brain in people with HIV/AIDS who get a specific infection after starting treatment, and it hopes to find ways to better manage the serious immune reactions that can happen as a result.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Maryland, College Park NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Park, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11083312 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind the migration of CD4+ T cells to the brain in HIV/AIDS patients who develop cryptococcal infections after starting antiretroviral therapy. It focuses on the role of TNF-α, a key biomarker, in driving this migration and the subsequent immune response known as immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). By using a murine model, the study aims to uncover the molecular pathways involved, which could lead to better management of this life-threatening condition. The findings may help in understanding how to prevent or mitigate the severe immune responses that can occur in these patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are HIV/AIDS patients who are undergoing antiretroviral therapy and are at risk of developing cryptococcal infections.
Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who do not have a risk of cryptococcal infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for HIV/AIDS patients, reducing the risk of severe complications from cryptococcal infections.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific molecular mechanisms of CD4+ T cell migration in this context are not fully understood, similar research has shown promise in elucidating immune responses in HIV/AIDS patients.
Where this research is happening
College Park, United States
- Univ of Maryland, College Park — College Park, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shi, Meiqing — Univ of Maryland, College Park
- Study coordinator: Shi, Meiqing
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.