How HIV changes a brain protein linked to memory loss
The interplay between HIV-1 and amyloid precursor protein in infection and neurotoxicity
['FUNDING_R01'] · NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY · NIH-11299518
Testing how HIV alters a brain protein tied to Alzheimer's and whether those changes harm thinking and memory in people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11299518 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers at Northwestern are studying how HIV infects brain immune cells and changes the processing of the amyloid precursor protein (a protein linked to Alzheimer-like damage). They will use lab experiments with brain cells, molecular techniques, and analyses of human-derived samples to trace how those changes create a toxic brain environment. By connecting molecular findings to samples from people with HIV, the team hopes to identify the specific steps that cause neurotoxicity. The work aims to point toward targets for future treatments to protect thinking and memory in people with HIV.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with HIV—particularly older adults or those noticing memory or thinking difficulties—would be the most relevant candidates for this research.
Not a fit: People without HIV or whose cognitive problems stem from other non-HIV causes are unlikely to see direct benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could reveal new targets to prevent or treat thinking and memory problems in people living with HIV.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have found links between HIV, amyloid changes, and cognitive decline, so this builds on existing findings while probing novel molecular mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
CHICAGO, UNITED STATES
- NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY — CHICAGO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: NAGHAVI, MOJGAN HOSSEINI — NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: NAGHAVI, MOJGAN HOSSEINI
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, Alzheimer disease dementia