Using a blood test to measure alcohol use for better HIV prevention

Predictive Power of PEth for HIV Prevention in the Long-Acting Era

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10914663

This study is looking at a special test called PEth that helps doctors see how much alcohol someone is drinking, especially for people at risk of HIV, so they can provide better support and treatment to keep them healthy.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10914663 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of phosphatidylethanol (PEth) as a reliable biomarker to objectively measure alcohol consumption among individuals at risk for HIV. By accurately identifying unhealthy alcohol use, the study aims to improve HIV prevention strategies and treatment outcomes. The approach focuses on integrating PEth testing into clinical practice to facilitate timely interventions, particularly for those using long-acting HIV prevention methods. The goal is to enhance the effectiveness of HIV prevention efforts by addressing the challenges of self-reported alcohol use.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for HIV who may also engage in unhealthy alcohol consumption.

Not a fit: Patients who do not consume alcohol or are not at risk for HIV may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective HIV prevention strategies by accurately identifying individuals with unhealthy alcohol use.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using biomarkers like PEth for alcohol measurement, but this specific application in HIV prevention is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.