My project focuses on the role of different PERK haplotypes of HIV-associated neuorcognitve disorders (HAND). PERK is an ER kinase that responds to cellular stressors, mainly unfolded or misfiled proteins. Its initial actions are generally protective, but prolonged activation has been linked to neurocognitive issues and damage to the brain. PERK has two major haplotypes in the human population, PERK A and PERK B. PERK B has been associated with increased kinase activity and worse cognitive outcomes. As such, this project sought to investigate the role of these PERK haplotypes in astrocytes.