Understanding how substance use and depression affect people living with HIV

Integrated neuroimmune model of problematic substance use and depression in people living with HIV

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11051114

This study is looking at how substance use and depression affect young adults living with HIV, and how inflammation in the body might play a role, with the goal of finding ways to improve mental health and help people stick to their treatment plans.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11051114 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex relationship between substance use, depression, and systemic inflammation in individuals living with HIV, particularly during young adulthood. It aims to identify the factors that contribute to these issues, which are prevalent among this population and can lead to chronic diseases. By examining the brain's central executive network, the study seeks to understand how lower brain function may increase vulnerability to stress and negative emotions, thereby exacerbating substance use and depression. The findings could help develop targeted interventions to improve mental health and treatment adherence.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are young adults living with HIV who are experiencing substance use and depression.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or who do not have issues related to substance use or depression may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health outcomes and better adherence to HIV treatment for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the interplay between mental health and chronic diseases in HIV populations, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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 Virusaging associated diseaseaging associated disorders
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.