CNS-targeted highly active antiretroviral therapy

CNS-targeted highly active antiretroviral therapy (CNS-T HAART) is a therapeutic strategy developed and evaluated by researchers at the University of California, San Diego (notably through the CIT2 clinical trial) to treat HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment (HNCI). This approach involves selecting a combination of antiretroviral drugs—such as reverse transcriptase inhibitors, protease inhibitors, and integrase inhibitors—that demonstrate high central nervous system (CNS) penetration, often quantified by a CNS Penetration Effectiveness (CPE) score. By optimizing drug delivery across the blood-brain barrier, the strategy aims to suppress HIV replication within the brain, reduce neuroinflammation, and improve cognitive function in patients with HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND).

Other names

CNS-targeted HAARTCNS-T HAARTCNS-penetrating antiretroviral therapy