Understanding how methamphetamine and HIV affect the brain

M-SCORCH: Methamphetamine use disorder data generation center for Single Cell Opioid Responses in the Context of HIV

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-11039952

This study is looking at how HIV and methamphetamine use affect the brain, especially in areas that help with thinking and memory, to better understand how these factors might lead to problems with brain function.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-11039952 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex interactions between HIV and methamphetamine use and their effects on brain function. By analyzing human brain tissue and organoids at a single-cell level, the study aims to identify differences in gene expression and biological pathways influenced by these conditions. The research focuses on specific brain regions critical for neurobiological responses to methamphetamine, using advanced techniques to assess the presence of HIV in brain cells. This comprehensive approach seeks to enhance our understanding of how these two factors contribute to cognitive impairments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are HIV positive and have a history of methamphetamine use.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV or methamphetamine use disorder may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for individuals affected by both HIV and methamphetamine use disorder.

How similar studies have performed: While the interactions between HIV and methamphetamine are known, this specific approach using single-cell analysis is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior research.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, 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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virusaddictive disorder
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.