Using magnesium-based therapy to improve brain health in people with chronic HIV infection
Official title: Mg-based therapy for mitigating HAND and neuropsychiatric symptoms in the condition of chronic HIV infection
Funded at Old Dominion University · NIH-11009095 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Old Dominion University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Norfolk, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $440,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG090171-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11009095 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are living with chronic HIV and experiencing neuropsychiatric symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not living with chronic HIV or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guo, Minglei — Old Dominion University
- Study coordinator: Guo, Minglei
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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.