While great strides have been made, HIV remains a major public health issue affecting millions worldwide. Early in the infection, the virus can enter the brain, leading to significant neurological challenges.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) attacks the immune system, and if untreated, can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). While antiretroviral therapy (ART) allows people with HIV to live long, healthy lives, it does not fully eradicate the virus. Neurological complications, such as HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND), can persist and cause confusion, memory loss, and behavioral changes.
"An estimated 40.8 million [37.0 – 45.6 million] people were living with HIV at the end of 2024."
The Ayyavoo Laboratory is dedicated to understanding how HIV-1 impacts the human nervous system and identifying strategies to combat HIV-associated complications. Led by Dr. Velpandi Ayyavoo, our research integrates molecular virology, neuroscience, and advanced laboratory models to study the mechanisms of HIV pathogenesis in both the peripheral and central nervous systems (CNS).
Our research uses several complementary approaches to study the mechanisms of HIV in the central nervous system. These techniques allow us to investigate how the virus establishes reservoirs and contributes to neuroinflammation.
These models mimic the human brain, allowing us to study how HIV infection changes communication between neurons, astrocytes, and microglia.
Using organoids with microglia from HIV-positive donors, we explore how the virus hides and develop strategies to eliminate these reservoirs.
This technique maps gene activity, helping us see how HIV reshapes molecular networks and contributes to inflammation and cognitive decline.
A glimpse into our research environment, collaborative team, and the technology that drives our discoveries.
We are always looking for passionate and driven individuals to join our quest to understand and combat neuroAIDS. If you are a prospective graduate student or postdoctoral fellow with a background in virology or neuroscience, we encourage you to get in touch.
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