Clinical Core

The Johns Hopkins University CFAR Clinical Core (CC) is designed to promote the generation, maturation, and implementation of new patient-oriented, clinical and translational investigation, with a focus on key areas for NIH-supported HIV scientific research. Our model is grounded in our premise that new research arises when investigators can discuss clinical challenges and these questions become successful research when incubated in a highly supportive intellectual environment and where ample clinical research resources can be provided. The overarching goal of the CC is to foster new HIV clinical research by providing the environment, the resources, and the critical support necessary for the conduct of HIV-associated clinical and translational studies. Addressing HIV-associated comorbidities and co-infections continues to be a high-priority area in which the CC has bridged a number of scientific and clinical resources at Johns Hopkins. The mix of HIV, aging, and substance use affecting our patients highlights the growing importance of neurocognitive complications in HIV, an area that will have a more distinctive role with an integration of the work of our CNS (Central Nervous System) Dysfunction Scientific Working Group into the CC. The CC has also established the capacity and expertise to support clinical research in areas that support the goals of Ending the HIV Epidemic, including research to prevent HIV transmission through provision of treatment, to promote HIV cure, and to reduce inconsistencies in HIV care delivery and outcomes.