Nashville, TN — On Monday, December 1, 2025, Meharry Medical College and its Clinical and Translational Research Center (CTRC) will commemorate World AIDS Day with a campus-wide event in the Cal Turner Family Center from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
This year’s World AIDS Day theme, “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response” highlights the growing challenges faced by HIV research and prevention programs. Recent pauses and reductions in federal funding across the country have created new barriers, making continued efforts in HIV prevention, testing, and treatment more critical than ever.
During the event, members of Meharry’s CTRC will distribute informational flyers promoting three ongoing research studies, including HIV prevention trials, HIV treatment trials, and a chronic kidney disease treatment study. Attendees will also receive individually wrapped cookies as a token of appreciation for their engagement.
To encourage open dialogue and reduce stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS, a “Break the Stigma” table will be available for students, faculty, and staff. Participants will be invited to write messages of support, awareness, and encouragement on sticky notes to be displayed on a collective message board.
The Clinical and Translational Research Center (CTRC), founded in the 1980s, continues its mission to bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and standard care, especially marginalized communities.
Current Studies Open for Recruitment:
MERCK HIV Prevention Trial
Study background: This prevention study compares monthly and daily HIV prevention pills.
Who can participate?
- Cisgender men, transgender, and nonbinary individuals who have receptive anal sex
- Ages 18–65
What is involved?
- In-person visits over a 3-year period
- Participants receive HIV-Prevention medication in the form of a pill: either a once-Monthly HIV Prevention Pill with a placebo-daily pill or a daily-HIV Prevention pill with a once-monthly placebo pill. However, regardless of which medication, participants will be fully protected while on study treatment.
Benefits:
- Free study-related care
- Compensation between $100 – $250 per visit
Why Participate?
- Quick and easy screening with no obligation
- Compensation for time and travel
- Opportunity to contribute to research improving care for marginalized communities
Contact
Clinical and Translational Research Center (CTRC)
Glory S. Stanton, BS, MA
Clinical Research Coordinator I
Phone: 615-327-6353 (8:30 AM–4:00 PM)
Email: gstanton@mmc.edu
HIV Treatment and Weight Gain Study (ADAPPT Study)
Study Background: This study, conducted in partnership with Vanderbilt University Medical Center, examines how HIV and antiretroviral therapy (ART) affect fat cells (adipocytes) and lead to ectopic fat accumulation in areas like the liver, muscles, and around the heart.
Who can participate?
- Individuals living with HIV
- Priority given to BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) individuals
What is involved?
- 5 clinic visits (2–3 hours each) over 52 weeks
- Study duration: 2 years
Benefits:
- Free study-related care
- $150 per visit (up to $750 total)
Contact
Sheena Simon, DNP, APRN, NP-C
Email: ssimon@mmc.edu
Office: 615.327.6301 | Clinic: 615.341.4348
Vertex Nephrology Treatment Trial
Study Background: This trial focuses on new treatment options for chronic kidney disease.
Who can participate?
- Individuals aged 18–65 with chronic kidney disease
- BIPOC participants encouraged to enroll
What is involved?
- Study duration: up to 4 years
- Number of visits: 21 visits over the span of 96 weeks
- In-person and home-health visits available
Benefits:
- Free study-related care
- Compensation between $75 – $255 per visit
- Transportation and meal reimbursements
Contact
Clinical and Translational Research Center (CTRC)
DeAnthony Reed, BA, MS
Clinical Research Coordinator I
Email: deanthony.reed@mmc.edu
Phone: 615.327.6989
