Improving brain health in people with HIV who drink heavily

Cognitive and Inflammation Targeted Gut-Brain Interventions in People Living with HIV who are High-Risk Alcohol Users

['FUNDING_P01'] · UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA · NIH-10910904

This study is looking at how two gentle treatments, one that stimulates a nerve in your neck and another that adds good bacteria to your gut, can help improve thinking skills and reduce inflammation in people with HIV who also drink a lot of alcohol. If you join, you'll see if these treatments can boost your brain health and overall well-being!

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_P01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (GAINESVILLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10910904 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of two non-invasive interventions, transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation (tVNS) and probiotic supplementation, on cognitive function and inflammation in individuals living with HIV who are high-risk alcohol users. The study aims to enhance brain health and gut microbiome balance while exploring the gut-brain connection. Participants will undergo these interventions to assess improvements in cognitive abilities and overall health outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are also high-risk alcohol users.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV or do not engage in high-risk alcohol use may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cognitive function and quality of life for patients living with HIV who struggle with alcohol use.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using non-invasive interventions like tVNS for cognitive improvement, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

GAINESVILLE, 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 Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus

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.