RURush University · Microbiology & Immunology
HIV Drug Abuse and Cognitive Health Laboratory
Lena Al-Harthi · Chicago, Illinois
Research Focus
Dr. Lena Al-Harthi's lab investigates the complex interplay between HIV and drug abuse, particularly focusing on how substances like methamphetamine affect cognitive health in individuals living with HIV. They utilize innovative humanized animal models to explore how HIV hides in the brain and how it impacts brain function and homeostasis. By studying these mechanisms, the lab aims to develop better strategies for addressing cognitive impairments in HIV-positive drug users.
HIVmethamphetamineneurocognitive impairmentastrocytesanimal modelsbrain chimerasneuroinflammationdrug abuseHIV reservoircognitive decline
Research Aims
3AIM 01Investigate the role of astrocytes as a reservoir for HIV in the brain.
AIM 02Assess the impact of methamphetamine on brain homeostasis in the presence of HIV.
AIM 03Examine the evolution of HIV within the CNS and peripheral organs using humanized animal models.
Skills the Lab Values
PCRcell cultureanimal model developmentimmunofluorescencegenetic transcription analysisRNA sequencingneuron progenitor cell engraftmentneurological assaysdata managementanimal handling
Output against the department
Publications136top 47% of dept.229th of 486
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations4.3kbottom 33% of dept.324th of 486
this lab
most citedleast cited
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