Nigerian researcher, Elizabeth Oladipo, has earned international recognition after presenting pioneering work on the impact of HIV on the brain at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), Omaha, USA.

Her study revealed that the HIV Tat protein — a molecule that remains active in the brain even when patients are on combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) — plays a major role in long-term neurological damage. The findings link Tat to memory loss, impaired cognition, and neurodegeneration, conditions that continue to affect people living with HIV despite advances in treatment.

Speaking during her poster presentation, Oladipo explained: “Tat persists in the brain long after the virus has been suppressed in the blood, which makes it particularly dangerous. My research is focused on understanding how Tat interacts with brain cells, so we can develop ways to protect patients from long-term neurological complications.”

Her presentation drew strong commendations from senior scientists and fellow researchers, who praised the rigor of her data and the clarity of her insights. Many described her work as a potential breakthrough in addressing HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders — one of the greatest challenges in long-term HIV care.

With more than 39 million people living with HIV worldwide, and Nigeria carrying one of the heaviest burdens, experts say Oladipo’s findings could inform new strategies to protect patients’ brain health and improve their quality of life.

Oladipo, who has dedicated her career to advancing human health through research, said she hopes her work will contribute to global efforts to mitigate the hidden effects of HIV.

Her achievement not only underscores the global relevance of her research but also highlights the growing influence of Nigerian scientists in tackling some of the world’s most pressing health challenges.