Effects of treating a virus on heart health in HIV patients

Impact of Treating Asymptomatic CMV Replication on Cardiovascular Risk in Treated HIV Infection

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10672319

This study is looking at whether treating a common virus called cytomegalovirus (CMV) can help improve heart health in people living with HIV who don’t have symptoms, by using a new antiviral drug, letermovir, to see if it reduces inflammation and lowers the risk of heart problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10672319 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how treating asymptomatic cytomegalovirus (CMV) replication may reduce cardiovascular risk in individuals living with HIV. The study will assess whether addressing CMV can lower inflammation and improve heart health markers in patients who are already on antiretroviral therapy. By utilizing a clinical trial that tests a new antiviral drug, letermovir, the research aims to determine if this treatment can lead to better cardiovascular outcomes for those affected. Participants will be monitored for changes in vascular inflammation and endothelial function.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are on antiretroviral therapy and have asymptomatic CMV replication.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV or those who are not experiencing asymptomatic CMV replication may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly lower the risk of cardiovascular disease in HIV patients by effectively managing CMV replication.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that treating asymptomatic CMV can reduce inflammation in HIV patients, suggesting a promising avenue for this research.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.