Using a new drug to improve brain health in people with HIV-related cognitive issues
Official title: Positive allosteric modulator PNU-120596 to treat HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders
Funded at Rosalind Franklin Univ of Medicine & Sci · NIH-11098771 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new drug called PNU-120596 to see if it can help protect brain cells and improve thinking skills in people with HIV-related brain issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rosalind Franklin Univ of Medicine & Sci NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (North Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $678,398 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA060761-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11098771 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are experiencing cognitive difficulties associated with the infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not living with HIV or who do not exhibit cognitive impairments related to HIV may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of a positive allosteric modulator, PNU-120596, to treat HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND). The study focuses on understanding how this drug can protect brain cells from damage caused by HIV and improve cognitive function in affected individuals. Researchers will utilize a specific animal model that mimics HAND to explore the drug's effects on HIV replication and neuroprotection. By examining the mechanisms of action, the research aims to provide insights into potential new therapies for patients suffering from these cognitive disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that improve cognitive function and quality of life for individuals living with HIV.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using similar approaches to target neurocognitive disorders, but this specific application of PNU-120596 is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Rosalind Franklin Univ of Medicine & Sci
North Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: He, Johnny J — Rosalind Franklin Univ of Medicine & Sci
- Study coordinator: He, Johnny J
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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.