Understanding Memory and Thinking Changes in Women with HIV

Evaluation of Neurobiological Mechanisms Mediating the Effect of Immune Activation on Neurocognitive Impairment and the Role of Psychosocial Factors Among Women Living with HIV

NIH-funded research University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11122319

This project looks at how immune system activity and life experiences affect memory and thinking skills in women living with HIV.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11122319 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Many women living with HIV experience changes in their memory and thinking, even when their virus is well-controlled. This project aims to understand why this happens by looking at how ongoing immune system activity and social factors like stress or stigma might play a role. We are using existing information and samples from a large group of women with HIV to explore the brain pathways involved. Our goal is to uncover the connections between the immune system, life experiences, and cognitive changes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This project focuses on understanding cognitive changes in women living with HIV, particularly those who have participated in the Women's Interagency HIV Study (WIHS).

Not a fit: Patients who are not women living with HIV or who do not experience cognitive impairment related to HIV may not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat memory and thinking problems for women living with HIV.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown links between immune activation and cognitive issues in HIV, and this project builds upon that knowledge by exploring specific neurobiological pathways and psychosocial factors.

Where this research is happening

Birmingham, 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.