Understanding how stimulant use affects inflammation and brain function in people with HIV
Official title: Defining molecular mechanisms by which stimulant evoked dopamine drives inflammation and neuronal dysfunction in neuroHIV
Funded at Drexel University · NIH-10867344 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how stimulant drugs, like meth and cocaine, affect brain health and inflammation in people with HIV, to better understand how these substances might make cognitive and mental health issues worse.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Drexel University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $571,893 |
| NIH project number | 5R61DA058501-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10867344 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who also have a history of stimulant use.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use stimulants or are not living with HIV may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of stimulant drugs, like methamphetamine and cocaine, on inflammation and brain function in individuals living with HIV. It focuses on how these stimulants increase dopamine levels in the brain, which may worsen inflammation and neuronal dysfunction. By examining the interactions between immune cells and neurons, the study aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to cognitive decline and neuropsychiatric issues in this population. The research employs advanced techniques to model these interactions and assess the impact of elevated dopamine on disease progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment strategies for cognitive decline and neuropsychiatric disorders in people living with HIV who use stimulants.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that understanding the role of dopamine in neuroinflammation could lead to significant advancements in treating related conditions, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Drexel University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gaskill, Peter Jesse — Drexel University
- Study coordinator: Gaskill, Peter Jesse
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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.