How treating a virus in HIV patients may lower heart disease risk

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

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10891816

This study is looking at whether treating a common virus called cytomegalovirus (CMV) can help improve heart health for people living with HIV who are on medication, and it involves testing a new antiviral drug to see if it can reduce inflammation and lower 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-10891816 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of asymptomatic cytomegalovirus (CMV) replication in increasing cardiovascular risk among people living with HIV who are on antiretroviral therapy. The study aims to determine if treating this viral replication can reduce inflammation and improve heart health in these patients. By utilizing a clinical trial that tests a new antiviral drug, letermovir, the research will assess changes in vascular inflammation and endothelial function. Participants will be monitored for cardiovascular health indicators to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment.

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 are not living with HIV or those who do not have asymptomatic CMV replication may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cardiovascular health and reduced heart disease risk for HIV patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that treating asymptomatic CMV replication can reduce inflammatory markers in HIV patients, suggesting potential success for this approach.

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 2026-06-13 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.