Using magnesium-based therapy to improve brain health in people with chronic HIV infection

Mg-based therapy for mitigating HAND and neuropsychiatric symptoms in the condition of chronic HIV infection

NIH-funded research Old Dominion University · NIH-11009095

This study is looking at how a treatment involving magnesium might help improve brain health and reduce mental health issues in people living with chronic HIV by boosting the brain's immune cells.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOld Dominion University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Norfolk, United States)
Project IDNIH-11009095 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential of magnesium depletion and repopulation (MgDR) as a treatment for neurological deficiencies associated with chronic HIV infection. The approach focuses on restoring the function of microglia, the brain's immune cells, which play a crucial role in maintaining brain health. By replenishing these cells, the study aims to mitigate neuropsychiatric symptoms and improve overall brain function in affected individuals. The research includes pilot studies that have shown promising preliminary results in animal models.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are living with chronic HIV and experiencing neuropsychiatric symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with chronic HIV or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic options for improving brain health and reducing neuropsychiatric symptoms in individuals living with chronic HIV.

How similar studies have performed: While magnesium-based therapies have shown promise in other neurological conditions, this specific approach for chronic HIV has not been extensively tested, making it a novel investigation.

Where this research is happening

Norfolk, 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 VirusAcquired brain injury
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.