How HIV-1 affects brain cells and contributes to neurotoxicity

The interplay between HIV-1 and amyloid precursor protein in infection and neurotoxicity

['FUNDING_R01'] · NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY AT CHICAGO · NIH-11042138

This study is looking at how HIV-1 affects brain cells and immune cells in the brain, hoping to find new ways to help people with cognitive issues related to HIV, like memory problems.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorNORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY AT CHICAGO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11042138 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the interaction between HIV-1 and brain cells, particularly focusing on how the virus infects immune cells in the central nervous system. It aims to understand the replication strategies of HIV-1 in these cells and the resulting neurotoxic environment that can lead to cognitive disorders in patients. By studying the cytokines and toxic products secreted by infected brain-resident immune cells, the research seeks to uncover potential targets for new treatments. The findings could provide insights into the mechanisms behind HIV-1-associated dementia and other neurocognitive disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV-1, particularly those experiencing cognitive difficulties or neurocognitive disorders.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HIV-1 or those without any cognitive impairments related to HIV-1 are unlikely to benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies to prevent or treat neurocognitive disorders in individuals living with HIV-1.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neurotoxic effects of HIV-1, but this specific approach to studying brain-resident immune cells is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

CHICAGO, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.