Understanding how lysosomal dysfunction affects cognitive disorders in HIV patients

Lysosomal dysregulation contributes to HAND

NIH-funded research Temple Univ of the Commonwealth · NIH-10886233

This study is looking at how a problem with cell recycling in the brain, caused by the HIV virus, might lead to thinking and movement issues in people with HIV, and it hopes to find new ways to help improve brain health for those affected.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTemple Univ of the Commonwealth NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10886233 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of lysosomal dysfunction in the development of cognitive and motor disorders in patients infected with HIV. It focuses on how the HIV-1 Vpr protein disrupts lysosomal activity, leading to the accumulation of neurotoxic proteins like alpha-synuclein, which are linked to neurodegenerative diseases. By analyzing the mechanisms of lysosomal degradation and its impact on neuronal health, the study aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets for improving cognitive function in affected individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are HIV-1 infected individuals experiencing cognitive, speech, or motor disorders.

Not a fit: Patients without HIV infection or those not exhibiting cognitive or motor dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive and motor functions in HIV-infected patients suffering from neurocognitive disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting lysosomal dysfunction can lead to improvements in neurodegenerative conditions, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.