Using focused ultrasound to target HIV in the brain and promote healing
MR-guided focused ultrasound to eradicate CNS viral reservoirs and promote neurogenesis in the HIV-infected brain
This study is exploring a new way to help people with HIV, especially those who also struggle with substance use, by using focused ultrasound to make it easier for treatments to reach the brain and fight the virus, with the hope of improving their overall health and brain function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10833103 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to treat HIV by using MR-guided focused ultrasound to open the blood-brain barrier, allowing for better delivery of antiretroviral therapy and CRISPR technology to eliminate HIV reservoirs in the brain. The study aims to improve treatment outcomes for HIV-infected individuals, particularly those with substance use disorders, who often experience more severe neurological complications. By testing this method in humanized rodent models, the researchers hope to demonstrate its effectiveness in eradicating the virus and promoting neurogenesis, which could lead to improved cognitive function. The ultimate goal is to develop a more effective treatment strategy that addresses both the viral infection and its neurological impacts.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are HIV-infected individuals, particularly those with substance use disorders and associated neurological complications.
Not a fit: Patients who are not HIV-infected or those without neurological complications related to HIV may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a breakthrough in HIV treatment by effectively eliminating viral reservoirs in the brain and enhancing recovery of cognitive functions.
How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, preliminary studies in rodent models have shown promise, indicating potential for success in human applications.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- University of Maryland Baltimore — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chang, Linda — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Chang, Linda
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 below.