Understanding how nicotine affects brain inflammation in people with HIV

Investigating the role of nicotine and the NRLP3 Inflammasome in HIV-1-Associated CNS Inflammation

NIH-funded research Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-11085355

This study is looking at how smoking nicotine might affect brain inflammation in people with HIV, aiming to understand how this interaction could impact thinking and memory, so we can find better ways to help those who smoke and live with HIV.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11085355 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of nicotine on neuroinflammation in individuals living with HIV. It focuses on how nicotine and HIV-1 interact to activate the NLRP3 inflammasome, which plays a crucial role in inflammation and cognitive impairment. By using advanced models, including humanized mice, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind this interaction and its effects on the blood-brain barrier. The findings could lead to better understanding and management of cognitive issues in HIV patients who smoke.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who also use nicotine products.

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

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for cognitive impairment in HIV patients, particularly those who use tobacco.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome can be effective in managing inflammation, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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 Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.