Newly Funded Grant - Endocannabinoids, Cannabis, and Neurocognitive Deficits in HIV

Dr. Brook Henry received notice of funding for his study that will examine dose response interaction between cannabis use and the endocannabinoid (EC) system.

Previous studies have indicated that the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties of the EC system may have therapeutic utility in reducing HIV-induced damage to the central nervous system, including preventing the development of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND).  In contrast, cannabis use is reported to induce neurocognitive and functional impairment after chronic exposure.

The study will aid in the assessment of EC system function in HIV and the impact on neuroinflammatory pathways implicated in HAND.  This will be the first study to assess the effect of both the EC system and cannabis use on neurocognition in HIV disease, which is important in light of the prevalent use of cannabis in this population.