PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT This project aims to understand the impact of cannabidiol on changes in gut bacterial compositions in a virally suppressed SIV rhesus macaque model to support the training of Dr. Rosado-Franco and ultimate transition as an independent substance abuse HIV researcher. Cannabidiol is the most abundant non-psychotropic cannabinoid from the Cannabis plant and its studies as adjunctive anti-inflammatory therapy in people living with HIV is of major interest. In this Diversity Supplement Proposal, we are interested in understanding if changes in the gut bacterial abundance are linked to myeloid cell activation or by modulation of antiviral signatures. Feces from Rhesus Macaque either healthy or infected with SIV and treated daily with cART and/or CBD will be collected longitudinally. Genomic DNA will be extracted, and 16S and IT-S 2 genes will be sequenced using Illumina sequencing. Differences in taxonomic profiles and alpha and beta diversity will be determined between different groups. This will help us understand the appropriate bacterial composition for healthier gut and brain immunity in a HIV monkey disease model. With the guidance of his mentors Drs. Williams and Sears, his mentoring team, and the proposed training and professional development activities, Dr. Rosado-Franco will be well prepared to submit a K01 application to NIDA in September 2023 to facilitate his transition to independence.