Understanding how stress affects the immune system in people living with HIV, cannabis use disorder, and depression

Stress-immune mechanisms for people living with HIV, CUD and Depression

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-11195634

This study is looking at how stress affects the immune system and mental health in people living with HIV, especially those who also struggle with cannabis use and depression, to better understand how these factors can impact their overall health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-11195634 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex interactions between stress, immune function, and mental health in individuals living with HIV. It focuses on how psychosocial stress impacts the neuroendocrine system and immune responses, particularly in those also dealing with cannabis use disorder and major depressive disorder. By examining the epigenetic changes associated with these conditions, the study aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to increased morbidity in this population. Patients may be involved in assessments that explore these interactions and their effects on health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who also experience cannabis use disorder and/or major depressive disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV or the associated mental health conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment strategies for managing stress-related health issues in people living with HIV.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding stress-immune interactions in other populations, but this specific approach in the context of HIV and comorbid conditions is relatively novel.

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 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.