The HIV-1 Tat-protein triggers pro-inflammatory responses in microglia, astrocytes, and neurons, stimulating the release of potent pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), which contribute to neuronal injury and cognitive decline (in vitro study) [206,207]. This evidence concerns the gene TNF and Mental deterioration.