Understanding Brain Inflammation in People with HIV and Cognitive Changes
Tracking myeloid heterogeneity in mouse models and cerebrospinal fluid of HIV-suppressed individuals to classify neuroinflammation and identify molecular markers associated with clinical pathology
This project aims to understand how brain inflammation contributes to memory and thinking problems in people living with HIV, especially as they get older.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11166553 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many people with HIV, even with controlled virus, experience memory and thinking challenges, particularly as they age. This research explores how inflammation in the brain might be a key reason for these changes. We are looking at specific immune cells, called macrophages, to see how they behave in both animal models of aging and HIV. We will then look for similar patterns in spinal fluid samples from people living with HIV to find specific markers that can help us better understand and potentially address these cognitive issues.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for people living with HIV who are virally suppressed and are experiencing or are at risk for cognitive changes, particularly as they age.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment for cognitive impairment may not directly benefit from this foundational research, as it focuses on understanding disease mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help us better understand the causes of cognitive decline in people with HIV and lead to new ways to identify and treat brain inflammation.
How similar studies have performed: While previous studies have linked neuroinflammation to cognitive decline in people with HIV, this project explores a novel approach to track specific immune cell changes in human spinal fluid.
Where this research is happening
Oklahoma City, United States
- University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr — Oklahoma City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hayes, Lindsay Nicole — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Hayes, Lindsay Nicole
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 below.