Supplement to R01 NS124477

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Abstract We request an Administrative Supplement to our NINDS-funded grant R01 NS124477 ‘Novel pathogenic mechanism of HIV-associated CNS neurological disorders’ to fund a postdoctoral position for a Ukrainian scientist, Dr. Daria Starosyla. She will take over a new research direction in the project funded by the parent grant, investigation of the role that trained immunity plays in the neuroinflammation underlying pathogenesis of HAND. Our recent discoveries suggested a possibility that neuroinflammation is ‘imprinted’ in brain myeloid and glial cells by exposure to extracellular vesicles carrying HIV-1 protein Nef. So far, we have demonstrated this effect in peripheral blood and bone marrow myeloid cells, and the foray into the brain cells will be a novel development in neurobiology and contribute significantly to all Specific Aims of the parent grant. Given Dr. Starosyla’s experience in immunology, virology and development of anti-viral treatments, we believe she is well fit to take over the leading role on this part of the project. In addition to scientific reasons behind this request for Supplemental Funding, it also carries a humanitarian and political significance. The ongoing war in Ukraine severely affects all scientific enterprises in the country and endangers not only the present, but also the future scientific progress in Ukraine. It is critical to provide support and training to Ukrainian scientists during this tragic period in the history of their country, so that when the war ends, they can return to Ukraine ready to rebuild scientific programs. The training provided to Dr. Starosyla will prepare her for a future research career in the overlap of neurobiology and virology.