HIV memory mystery: even controlled virus may harm the brain

NCT ID NCT01875588

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jul 01, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study looks at why some people with HIV who have very low virus levels in their blood still develop thinking and memory problems. Researchers will follow 1,150 participants—including healthy volunteers—for up to 10 years, using brain scans, blood tests, and spinal fluid samples. The goal is to better understand how HIV might affect the brain even when medications keep the virus in check.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to

If successful, this study could help doctors better understand why memory and thinking problems occur in people with well-controlled HIV, potentially pointing toward future treatments.

What could go wrong

This is an observational study, not a treatment trial, so it won't directly improve health. It may take years to gather enough data, and findings might not apply to everyone with HIV.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

HIV infectious disease HIV Seropositivity

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • National Institutes of Health Clinical Center

    RECRUITING

    Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••