Investigating how sex differences affect brain health in people with HIV

Sex differences in the contribution of cerebrovascular injury and immune activation to neurocognitive impairment in HIV infection

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11030317

This study is looking at how being male or female affects brain health in older adults living with HIV, especially how heart health and inflammation might play a role in memory and thinking problems, so we can find better ways to help both men and women.

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-11030317 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how biological sex influences neurocognitive impairment (NCI) in individuals living with HIV, particularly focusing on older adults. It aims to understand the role of cerebrovascular injury and immune activation in cognitive decline, with a specific emphasis on the differences between men and women. The study will assess cardiovascular disease risk factors and inflammation to determine their impact on brain health. By comparing the cognitive health of men and women with HIV, the research seeks to identify tailored therapeutic approaches for each sex.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are living with HIV.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those under the age of 65 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cognitive health interventions specifically designed for women and men living with HIV.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated significant sex differences in cognitive impairment among individuals with HIV, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
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.