Overview
This program supports basic research to determine the mechanisms of neuropathogenesis caused by HIV and associated opportunistic and co-infections in both the developed and developing world. The program encourages HIV neuropathogenesis research that utilizes state-of-the-art approaches derived from the fields of molecular biology, physiology, virology, neurology, immunology, neuropsychology, and epidemiology.
Areas of Emphasis
- Evaluate the molecular mechanisms regulating entry of HIV into the central nervous system (CNS) compartment through the blood-brain barrier.
- Study the role of viral proteins, host derived mediators, signaling mechanisms in neuronal and synaptodendritic damage in the pathophysiology of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND).
- Use state-of-the-art approaches to identify molecular markers associated with HIV-induced nervous system disease, which are predictive of HAND, associated with disease progression, and responsive to therapy.
- Conduct basic research on HIV pathogenic mechanisms in the CNS that addresses the evolving neurological disease phenotypes resulting from chronic HIV infection, long-term highly active antiretroviral therapy, aging, and related neurodegenerative disease. Animal models for research on NeuroAIDS in chronic infection and aging are also encouraged.
- Assess the impact of antiretroviral treatment on neurocognitive outcomes among HIV-1 infected patients, including studies on the effect of insulin resistance, lipid abnormalities, cerebrovascular dysfunction, drug toxicity, and immune-reconstitution syndrome.
Contact
Jeymohan Joseph, Ph.D.
6001 Executive Boulevard, Room 6110, MSC 9619
301-443-3012, jjeymoha@mail.nih.gov
