The work in our laboratory focuses on the study of mechanisms of immune activation that underlie inflammatory disorders of the nervous system. Such disorders include viral infections, such as human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1), and demyelinating diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS). There is a substantial amount of evidence which suggest that retinoids may effectively modulate inflammatory responses in both HIV-1 infection and in MS. In individuals with HIV-1 infection, such deficiency, in association with deficiency of other micronutrients, such as zinc, has been associated with an increased risk of progressive clinical HIV-1 infection and a higher mortality. These risks may be higher in those who use opiates or cocaine, and treatment with replacement may not result in clinical benefit. Therefore, we are examining the mechanisms by which these compounds work in modulating immune responses by studying the various specific receptors and intracellular signals that are activated in conjunction with the induction of specific immune effects. As a part of these efforts, we are also investigating the effects of drugs of abuse on the immune and other responses that we observe.