Improving cognitive skills in people with HIV in South Africa.
Official title: Building Resources to Achieve Improvement in Neurocognition (B.R.A.I.N.) inpeople with HIV.
Funded at University of Cape Town · NIH-10798288 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new brain training programs to help people living with HIV in South Africa improve their thinking skills and daily life, so they can feel better and function well.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cape Town NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rondebosch, South Africa) |
| Project start | April 1, 2022 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $104,662 |
| NIH project number | 5R34MH126702-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10798288 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV in South Africa who are experiencing cognitive impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not living with HIV or those without cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing and adapting cognitive rehabilitation programs specifically for individuals living with HIV in South Africa, where the prevalence of HIV-related neurocognitive impairment is alarmingly high. The approach combines two effective cognitive training strategies: Compensatory Cognitive Training, which helps patients develop practical cognitive and functional skills, and Computer Cognitive Remediation Training, aimed at enhancing cognitive abilities. By tailoring these interventions to the local context, the research aims to improve cognitive function and overall quality of life for patients. The ultimate goal is to prepare for a larger randomized controlled trial to assess the efficacy of these adapted cognitive remediation strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance cognitive functioning and quality of life for individuals living with HIV.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that cognitive remediation strategies can be effective in improving cognitive function in various populations, suggesting potential success for this adapted approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Cape Town
Rondebosch, South Africa Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thomas, Kevin Garth — University of Cape Town
- Study coordinator: Thomas, Kevin Garth
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.