Improving Diagnostics and Neurocognitive Outcomes in HIV/AIDS-related Meningitis
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11539368 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study in Uganda aims to use faster, better tests and a new antifungal to help people with HIV who develop meningitis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2013 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $332,546 |
| NIH project number | 3R01NS086312-13S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11539368 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with HIV presenting with suspected central nervous system infections in Africa, particularly Uganda, who can participate in diagnostics and/or the antifungal trial.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without HIV or without suspected CNS infections or who cannot participate in the trial components may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project follows a large group of people with HIV who develop central nervous system infections to understand which infections are present using rapid diagnostic tests. It will validate new tests like a cryptococcal antigen assay and a host-response gene signature to quickly identify causes such as cryptococcal meningitis and tuberculosis. In addition, the study includes a phase II trial of the oral antifungal oteseconazole to see if it can improve microbiologic control and outcomes. The work combines observational data collection with a clinical trial component to explore both diagnosis and treatment options. Results could lead to faster, more accurate diagnoses and better survival and cognitive outcomes for patients with HIV-related meningitis in Africa.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could speed up accurate diagnoses and improve survival and cognitive outcomes for people with HIV-related meningitis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that rapid diagnostics can improve outcomes for CNS infections in HIV, but this project expands validation in a high-burden setting and tests a new antifungal.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Boulware, David R — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Boulware, David R
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Improving Diagnostics and Neurocognitive Outcomes in HIV/AIDS-Related Meningitis
This project tests faster, better ways to diagnose HIV-related meningitis and improve brain health in adults in Africa.
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Better diagnosis and brain health for people with HIV meningitis
This project tries faster tests and a new oral antifungal to help adults with HIV who develop meningitis.
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Faster diagnosis and better brain health after HIV-associated meningitis
This project tests faster bedside and lab tests plus a new oral antifungal to help adults with HIV who develop meningitis.
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Improving diagnosis and treatment for meningitis in HIV/AIDS patients
This study is all about finding better ways to diagnose and treat serious brain infections like cryptococcal and TB meningitis that can affect people with weakened immune systems, especially those living with HIV/AIDS, so we can help improve their health and care.
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An integrated mobile health program to reduce SAVA and mental health problems among female sex workers in Kenya
A new mobile health program aims to help female sex workers in Kenya avoid substance abuse, violence, HIV, and depression by delivering group therapy, online resources, and a peer discussion space.
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FIOCRUZ HIV/AIDS Clinical Trials Unit: advancing HIV prevention and treatment in Brazil
A Brazilian clinical trials unit led by Dr. Beatriz Grinsztejn is testing and speeding up new HIV prevention and treatment strategies to help people living with HIV/AIDS and those at risk.
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.