Studying neurodegenerative diseases is complex and quite fascinating. Understanding how HIV-1 affects the brain and results in the development of HAND is the major focus of our laboratory. However, it is rather difficult due to the inability to obtain primary tissues or cells (neurons, astrocytes) from patients. One of the approaches is the use of 3D organoids that is very relevant to the physiological conditions and cell lineages observed in the brain. In an effort to develop such an organoid model, we propose to use three cell types (microglia, neurons, and astrocytes) that are known to play a critical role in HIV CNS infection and pathology. These cells will be derived from neuronal progenitor cells (NPCs) by various differentiation methodologies that will mimic the adult brain (see figure below showing primary Neurons and Astrocytes developed from NPCs). Studies are in progress to develop 3D culture and to further understand how HIV-1 alters the function, viability, and synaptic communication.

Dr. Ayyavoo’s lab is in the School of Public Health at the University of Pittsburgh.