Our main research focus is on using the nonhuman primate model to determine the role of innate immune cells in mucosal dysfunction during SIV/malaria co-infection and to characterize the immunopathogenesis of malaria in pregnancy (MIP), in the presence and absence of SIV co-infection. Additionally, the Manuzak Lab works to examine the impact of substance use, particularly cannabis, on immunity and bio-behavioral factors leading to increased HIV transmission risk in disproportionately burdened populations and pathogenesis in people with HIV. Ultimately, these efforts will contribute to advances in HIV prevention efforts, reveal novel therapeutic targets for improving clinical outcomes in people with HIV, and mitigate the risk of MIP-associated morbidity and mortality in pregnant women with HIV.