Changes in Brain Metabolites in People with HIV Before and After ART Treatment Using Whole-Brain MRSI

Motivation: Chronic HIV infection is associated with widespread brain metabolite imbalance. However, few studies attempted to quantitate changes in brain metabolites in people with HIV (PWH) before and after initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) treatment. Goal(s): the aim of this study is to evaluate changes in brain metabolites in PWH, before and after initiating ART, at the whole-brain level using MRSI spectroscopic imaging (MRSI). Approach: In this longitudinal study, changes in MRSI derived metabolite are evaluated before and after ART treatment using an atlas-based approach. Results: Our results showed persistent neuro-inflammation in HIV subjects post-ART despite maintaining viral suppression. Impact: This study advocates the need for continued monitoring of their brain health of PWH even after starting ART.