Lipid profile of HIV-infected patients in relation to antiretroviral therapy: a review

Interaction between antiretroviral therapy regimens and body mass index on triglyceride levels in people living with HIV: a cross-sectional and longitudinal study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate how antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens and body mass index (BMI) interact to affect triglyceride (TG) levels in people living with HIV (PLWH).

METHODS

This research involved 451 men living with HIV for cross-sectional analysis, and 132 underwent follow-up assessments in 2021 and 2023. Multivariate logistic regression identified key factors, while covariance regression models assessed interactions between ART regimens and BMI on TG levels.

RESULTS

The result of this cross-sectional study indicated that advanced AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) stage (OR = 2.756, P = 0.003), higher BMI (OR = 1.131, P = 0.003), and waist-hip ratio (WHR, OR = 44.684, P = 0.019) are closely associated with high triglyceride levels. Additionally, regimens containing zidovudine (AZT) (OR = 3.927, P < 0.001) or protease inhibitors/integrase strand transfer inhibitors (PI/INSTI) (OR = 5.167, P < 0.001) were significantly linked to hypertriglyceridemia. Cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses from 2021 to 2023 emphasized that changes in BMI interact with antiretroviral treatment regimens to affect TG levels in PLWH (Pinteraction < 0.05). Especially in the AZT-based drug regimen, the correlation between BMI and TG is more prominent.

CONCLUSION

The interaction between ART regimens and BMI influences TG levels in PLWH, indicating that weight management is crucial for reducing the risk of hypertriglyceridemia in this population.

Low Plasma Lipids Are Associated with Relapsing and Lethal Visceral Leishmaniasis in HIV-Infected Patients

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) results from protozoa Leishmania infantum and L. donovani infection. This study investigated whether host factors would explain the relapses. First, susceptibility to amphotericin B of L. infantum isolates was evaluated in vitro. Then, clinical data and the lipid profile of patients with relapsing and non-relapsing VL were assessed. Susceptibility to amphotericin B was similar between the isolates. CD4+ lymphocytes were reduced in both groups of patients in the first episode and with relapsing VL. Still, the strongest blood cell indicator associated with relapses was low total lymphocyte counts. Total plasma cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, and, uniquely, triglycerides of the six individuals in the first episode and twenty-three with relapsing VL were lower in relapsing patients than those in the first episode. Deceased patients had extremely low low-density lipoprotein. After CD4+ decreases, lymphocyte CD8+ reduction is the final stage of immunological failure. The lower lipid concentrations appear to be secondary to the depletion of fat stores by inflammation-induced cachexia and fat exhaustion provoked by the co-occurrence of both diseases, which can finally lead to death.

Dyslipidemia among adult HIV patients on antiretroviral therapy and its association with age and body mass index in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Dyslipidemia is a common public health problem in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) who are receiving antiretroviral therapy and increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Although evidence indicates that the prevalence of dyslipidemia is high, estimated pooled data are not well documented. Therefore, we aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of dyslipidemia in adult people living with HIV receiving antiretroviral therapy in Ethiopia.

METHOD

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature. The following databases and grey literature were searched: PubMed, WorldCat, ScienceDirect, DOAG, African Journals Online, Google Scholar, and African Index Medicine. We included all comparative epidemiological studies that reported the prevalence of high concentration of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low density lipoprotein, and low concentration of high density lipoprotein cholesterol that were published between January 2003 and July 2023. The random effects model was used to pool the outcome of interest. Additionally, subgrouping, sensitivity analyses, and funnel plots were performed. R software Version 4.2.1 was used for statistical analysis.

RESULT

Seventeen studies with a total of 3929 participants were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of dyslipidemia, high total cholesterol, high triglyceride, elevated level of low density lipoprotein and low level of high density lipoprotein cholesterol were 69.32% (95% CI: 63.33, 74.72), 39.78% (95%CI: 32.12, 47.96), 40.32% (95%CI: 34.56, 46.36), 28.58% (95%CI: 21.81, 36.46), and 36.17% (95%CI: 28.82, 44.24), respectively. Age and body mass index were associated with high total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels.

CONCLUSION

The authors concluded that the prevalence of dyslipidemia in Ethiopia is high in people living with HIV receiving antiretroviral therapy. Early detection of dyslipidemia and its integration into treatment are essential for preventing cardiovascular disease.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Protocol registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023440125).

Efficacy and effect on lipid profiles of switching to ainuovirine-based regimen versus continuing efavirenz-based regimen in people with HIV-1: 24-week results from a real-world, retrospective, multi-center cohort study

Ainuovirine (ANV), a novel non-nucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI), was approved in China in 2021. In a previous randomized phase 3 trial, ANV demonstrated non-inferior efficacy relative to efavirenz (EFV) and was associated with lower rates of dyslipidemia. In this study, we aimed to explore lipid changes in treatment-experienced people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 (PWH) switching to ANV from EFV in real world. At week 24, 96.65% of patients in the ANV group and 93.25% in the EFV group had HIV-1 RNA levels below the limit of quantification (LOQ). Median changes from baseline in CD4 +T cell counts (37.0 vs 36.0 cells/µL, P = 0.886) and CD4+/CD8 +ratio (0.03 vs 0.10, P = 0.360) were similar between the two groups. The ANV group was superior to the EFV group in mean changes in total cholesterol (TC, -0.06 vs 0.26 mmol/L, P = 0.006), triglyceride (TG, -0.6 vs 0.14 mmol/L, P < 0.001), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C, 0.09 vs 0.08 mmol/L, P = 0.006), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C, -0.18 vs 0.29 mmol/L, P < 0.001) at week 24. We also observed that a higher proportion of patients demonstrated improved TC (13.55% vs 4.45%, P = 0.015) or LDL-C (12.93% vs 6.89%, P = 0.017), and a lower proportion of patients showed worsened LDL-C (5.57% vs 13.52%, P = 0.017) with ANV than with EFV at week 24. In conclusion, we observed good efficacy and favorable changes in lipids in switching to ANV from EFV in treatment-experienced PWH in real world, indicating a promising switching option for PWH who may be more prone to metabolic or cardiovascular diseases.

Development and Evaluation of a Nomogram for Predicting the Outcome of Immune Reconstitution Among HIV/AIDS Patients Receiving Antiretroviral Therapy in China

This study aims to develop and evaluate a model to predict the immune reconstitution among HIV/AIDS patients after antiretroviral therapy (ART). A total of 502 HIV/AIDS patients are randomized to the training cohort and evaluation cohort. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression and multivariate logistic regression analysis are performed to identify the indicators and establish the nomogram for predicting the immune reconstitution. Decision curve analysis (DCA) and clinical impact curve (CIC) are used to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of the nomogram. Predictive factors included white blood cells (WBC), baseline CD4+ T-cell counts (baseline CD4), ratio of effector regulatory T cells to resting regulatory T cells (eTreg/rTreg) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and are incorporated into the nomogram. The area under the curve (AUC) is 0.812 (95% CI, 0.767∼0.851) and 0.794 (95%CI, 0.719∼0.857) in the training cohort and evaluation cohort, respectively. The calibration curve shows a high consistency between the predicted and actual observations. Moreover, DCA and CIC indicate that the nomogram has a superior net benefit in predicting poor immune reconstitution. A simple-to-use nomogram containing four routinely collected variables is developed and internally evaluated and can be used to predict the poor immune reconstitution in HIV/AIDS patients after ART.

Association between lipid and glycemic profile and total body and trunk fat in children and adolescents diagnosed with HIV

INTRODUCTION

Metabolic alterations and body fat redistribution are common in people living with HIV using antiretroviral therapy and increase the risk of premature cardiovascular diseases.

AIM

To verify the presence of difference in the lipid and glycemic profile in relation to different total body and trunk fat phenotypes in children and adolescents diagnosed with HIV+.

METHOD

This is a cross-sectional study carried out with 62 children and adolescents diagnosed with HIV+. Lipid and glycemic profiles were obtained from blood samples. Total and trunk fat mass (FM) was obtained by DXA. Analysis of covariance was used to verify if there is difference in the lipid and glycemic profile between total body and trunk fat phenotypes.

RESULTS

In males, in the covariate-adjusted model, it was observed that boys with high total FM had higher triglyceride values (mean: 164.9 mg/dl^-1 ±31.2) compared to those with low and adequate total FM. In females, in adjusted models, it was observed that girls with high total FM had higher total cholesterol (mean: 181.6 mg/dl^-1 ±13.8) and LDL-C values (mean: 111.8 mg/dl^-1 ±12.0), compared to those with low and adequate total FM. Girls with trunk FM had higher total cholesterol (mean: 181.6 mg/dl^-1 ± 13.8), LDL-C (mean: 71.3 mg/dl^-1 ± 9.6) and blood glucose values (91.6 mg/dl^-1 ± 2.2).

CONCLUSION

Boys with high total FM had higher triglyceride levels, while in females, it was observed that girls with high total FM and high trunk FM had higher total cholesterol, LDL-C and blood glucose values. High body fat in children and adolescents living with HIV is related to metabolic changes in the lipid and glycemic profile, with specificities of sex and fat location.

Assessment of cardiovascular risk factors in obese women with HIV

BACKGROUND

The risk of significant weight gain/obesity associated with recently adopted antiretroviral therapy (ART) has been shown to be particularly higher among the black race, and female gender compared to their male counterparts. Herein, we evaluated and compared subclinical CVD risk between apparently healthy obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m²) and age matched normal BMI (BMI 18.5-24.9 kg/m²) women with HIV (WWH) on ART.

METHODS

This was a hospital-based cross-sectional study of adult (≥18 years) WWH. Conventional two-dimensional echocardiography and doppler imaging parameters, lipid profile, and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) measures were compared between the two groups. Multivariable regression analysis was done to determine independent variables.

RESULT

A total of 60 WWH were evaluated, 30 participants in each group. The mean age of the participants and duration on ART was 36.26 ± 5.71 and 10.23 ± 5.04 (years) respectively. Measured hsCRP, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoproteins were significantly (p = 0.002, p = 0.044, and p = 0.016 respectively) elevated in the obese group. Obese WWH had higher left atrial diameter, left atrial volume, left atrial area, aortic diameter, left ventricular mass (LVM), left ventricular mass index (LVMI), intraventricular septum in systole/diastole, left ventricular posterior wall in diastole and systole (p < 0.001, p = 0.018, p = 0.004, p = 0.025, p < 0.001, p = 0.019/p < 0.001, p = 0.020, and p = 0.021 respectively). On multivariable regression analysis, the measured serum biomarker hsCRP and the echocardiographic variables LVM and LVMI were independently associated (p = 0.02, p = 0.001 and p = 0.022 respectively) with BMI.

CONCLUSION

Obese WWH had higher biomarkers of CVDs and alterations in left ventricular structure that may increase their risk for adverse cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

Study on plasma metabolomics for HIV/AIDS patients treated by HAART based on LC/MS-MS

Background: Metabolomics can be applied to the clinical diagnosis and treatment evaluation of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). AIDS biomarkers have become a new direction of AIDS research providing clinical guidance for diagnosis. Objective: We sought to apply both untargeted and targeted metabolomic profiling to identify potential biomarkers for AIDS patients. Methods: A liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) based untargeted metabolomic profiling was performed on plasma samples of patients before and after highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) treatment as well as healthy volunteers to identify potential AIDS biomarkers. Targeted quantitative analysis was performed on the potential biomarkers screened from untargeted metabolic profiling for verification. Results: Using the Mass Profiler Professional and the MassHunter, several potential biomarkers have been found by LC-MS/MS in the untargeted metabolomic study. High-resolution MS and MS/MS were used to analyze fragmentation rules of the metabolites, with comparisons of related standards. Several potential biomarkers have been identified, including PS(O-18:0/0:0), sphingosine, PE (21:0/0:0), and 1-Linoleoyl Glycerol. Targeted quantitative analysis showed that sphingosine and 1-Linoleoyl Glycerol might be closely related to HIV/AIDS, which may be the potential biomarkers to the diagnosis. Conclusion: We conducted untargeted metabolomic profiling, which indicates that several metabolites should be considered potential biomarkers for AIDS patients. Further targeted metabolomic research verified that d-Sphingosine and 1-Linoleoyl glycerol as the diagnostic biomarker of AIDS.

Spectrum of Dyslipidemias in Treatment-Naïve Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Patients Presenting to an HIV Clinic of a Tertiary Care Hospital

Introduction

HIV/AIDS is a major communicable disease worldwide, especially in developing countries where disease prevalence is over 90%. The National AIDS Control Programme of Pakistan reported around 160,000 HIV cases (140,000-190,000) with a 5% prevalence among traditional risks groups. HIV infection is thought to affect lipids metabolism adversely, thus resulting in increased morbidity and mortality. The aim of the study was to find out the frequency and types of dyslipidemia in patients with HIV not taking anti-retroviral therapy, presenting to an HIV clinic at a tertiary care hospital.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted at the HIV clinic of Jinnah Hospital from January 2020 to July 2020. A total of 280 treatment-naïve patients, fulfilling the inclusion protocol, were included through non-probability consecutive sampling after informed consent. Blood samples of 5 mL were taken using aseptic measures and following standard procedure after ensuring overnight fasting by a nurse and were sent immediately to the pathology laboratory of Allama Iqbal Medical College. The results of the lipid profile were collected the next day and noted in the proforma. Dyslipidemia and type of dyslipidemia were recorded as per operational definition. Data were analyzed by SPSS software, version 27.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Cross-tabulation was done to assess the relationship of gender, BMI, and family history on dyslipidemia, and a chi-square test was applied to check statistical significance.

Results

Among 280 treatment-naïve HIV-infected patients, the majority of patients were females (52%). The mean duration of HIV was 9.31 + 2.13 months. About 55% of patients had a BMI of more than 25 kg m². A family history of dyslipidemia was found in 62% of the patients. Dyslipidemia was observed in 70% of patients with maximum derangement seen in total cholesterol level (62%). After applying the chi-square test, a significant relation was identified between BMI and family history with dyslipidemia in HIV-infected individuals (p-value = 0.00).

Conclusion

A considerable proportion of treatment-naïve HIV patients have underlying dyslipidemia with a significant relationship with higher BMI and a family history of dyslipidemia. The findings of this study highlight the importance of early screening for dyslipidemia in HIV patients.

Lipid Changes After Switch From TDF to TAF in the OPERA Cohort: LDL Cholesterol and Triglycerides

Background

Increases in lipids have been observed in people with HIV (PWH) switching from tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) to tenofovir alafenamide (TAF). We assessed changes in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and triglycerides (TG) following a switch from TDF to TAF.

Methods

Adults with ≥1 lipid measure before and after switch from TDF to TAF were identified in the OPERA cohort. Multivariable linear regression using generalized estimating equations was used to estimate predicted changes in lipids over time on TAF, modeled flexibly with linear splines.

Results

A total of 6451 PWH switched from TDF to TAF, of whom 4328 maintained all other agents. LDL-C increased significantly by 1.40 mg/dL/mo over the first 3 months on TAF, by 0.33 mg/dL/mo between 3 and 9 months and then plateauing beyond 9 months. TG increased significantly by 3.52 mg/dL/mo over the first 3 months of TAF, by 0.91 mg/mL/mo between 3 and 9 months and by 0.72 mg/mL/mo between 9 and 16 months, but decreased thereafter. Similar patterns were observed in analyses restricted to PWH who switched from TDF to TAF but maintained all other agents.

Conclusions

TDF-to-TAF switch was associated with LDL-C and TG increases over the first 9 to 16 months on TAF. The dynamic patterns observed cannot be attributed to changes in other agents.

Distinct patterns of fasting plasma glucose and lipid profile levels over time in adults tested positive for HIV on HAART in Shanghai, China, revealed using growth mixture models

Objectives

This study sought to identify potential change patterns and predictors of fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and lipid levels after initiating highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 1,572 patients tested positive for HIV who initiated HAART between January 2010 and October 2020 in Shanghai, China. The growth mixture models (GMM) were used for capturing subgroups of FPG trajectories as well as triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) dual-trajectories. Multinomial logistic regression models identified correlates of given trajectories.

Results

The median follow-up time was 2.0 years (IQR 1.0-4.7). Three FPG trajectory subgroups were identified as FPG low-stable (62.3%), medium-stable (30.5%), and high-increasing (7.2%). Furthermore, three subgroups of TG and TC dual-trajectories were identified as TG and TC high-slight increasing (13.7%), low-rapid increasing (27.6%), and a subgroup of medium-stable TC and slight-decreasing TG (58.7%). Older age, high TG, FPG, BMI, CD4 count of <200 at baseline, and initial use of zidovudine (AZT) and protease inhibitors (PIs) helped to identify the class with increasing glucose or lipid metabolism trajectories.

Conclusion

The change patterns of plasma glucose and lipid in patients tested positive for HIV were heterogeneous and tailored interventions should be considered in specific subgroups.

Contributory role of ART in the development of non-AIDS comorbidities in asymptomatic PLWHA

BACKGROUND

Despite the many benefits that follow antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation, its chronic use contributes to the early aging of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). The aim of this cross-sectional study was to trace the prevalence of and investigate possible renal, bone and metabolic changes, as well as cardiovascular risk in 94 asymptomatic PLWHA, relating them to the duration of ART use.

METHODS

Four groups were evaluated according to ART use: G1 (n = 21), ART-naïve individuals; G2 (n = 17), <2 years; G3 (n = 40), 2-10 years; and G4 (n = 16) on ART for more than 10 years.

RESULTS

Our results showed a high prevalence of dyslipidemic individuals (64%), especially in those under ART. Lower creatine phosphokinase levels were observed in G1 as compared to the others (p < 0.05). Regarding the Framingham score, 12.1% of PLWHA showed moderate and high risk, and the highest proportion (38.5%) occurred in G4 (p = 0.003). A decrease in glomerular filtration rates occurred in 20% of patients, which was also more significant in G3 and G4 (p = 0.007). High prevalences of osteopenia and osteoporosis (53.2%) were found, especially in G1 and G4; however, G1 showed the lowest means for alkaline phosphatases (AP, p = 0.04 and BAP, p = 0.005) and osteocalcin (p = 0.005), in addition to higher vitamin-D concentrations (p = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed the possible contributory role of ART in these changes, which leads us to reflect on the need for specific conducts and patient care, pointing out the importance of individualized care in an attempt to increase life expectancy.

Azidothymidine Downregulates Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 Induced Lipogenesis by Suppressing Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Mitophagy in Immortalized Human Sebocytes

Background

Increased sebum secretion is considered the main causative factor in the pathogenesis of acne. There is an unmet pharmacological need for a novel drug that can control sebum production with a favorable adverse effect profile.

Objective

To investigate the effect of azidothymidine on lipid synthesis in sebocytes and to identify the underlying mechanism of the inhibitory effect of azidothymidine on insulinlike growth factor (IGF)-1-induced lipid synthesis in sebocytes.

Methods

Immortalized human sebocytes were used for the analysis. Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and Oil Red O staining were performed to evaluate lipid synthesis in the sebocytes. The differentiation, lipid synthesis, mitochondrial biogenesis, and mitophagy in sebocytes were investigated.

Results

TLC and Oil Red O staining revealed that azidothymidine reduced IGF-1 induced lipid synthesis in the immortalized human sebocytes. Azidothymidine also reduced IGF-1-induced expression of transcriptional factors and enzymes involved in sebocyte differentiation and lipid synthesis, respectively. Moreover, we found that IGF-1 upregulated the levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorgamma coactivator-1α, LC-3B, p62, and Parkin, major regulators of mitochondrial biogenesis and mitophagy in immortalized human sebocytes. In contrast, azidothymidine inhibited IGF-1 induced mitochondrial biogenesis and mitophagy in the sebocytes.

Conclusion

These results suggest that azidothymidine downregulates IGF-1-induced lipogenesis by dysregulating the quality of mitochondria through suppression of mitochondrial biogenesis and mitophagy in immortalized human sebocytes. Our study provides early evidence that azidothymidine may be an effective candidate for a new pharmacological agent for controlling lipogenesis in sebocytes.

Impact of switch from tenofovir disoproxil fumarate-based regimens to tenofovir alafenamide-based regimens on lipid profile, weight gain and cardiovascular risk score in people living with HIV

Background

As cardiovascular diseases represent the main cause of non-AIDS related death in people living with HIV (PLWH) with undetectable viral load, we evaluated lipid profile, weight gain and calculated cardiovascular risk change after switching from tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)-based regimens to tenofovir alafenamide (TAF)-based regimens.

Methods

For this retrospective study, we selected HIV-infected patients with suppressed viral load who fitted in one of the two groups below: First group (TDF/TDF): Patients treated continuously with TDF-based regimens. Second group (TDF/TAF): Patients treated with TDF-regimens during at least 6 months then switched to TAF-regimens while maintaining other drugs unchanged. Available data included date of birth, gender, ethnicity, lymphocyte T CD4⁺ count, weight, height, blood pressure, current/ex/non-smoker, diabetes mellitus, familial cardiovascular event, lipid profile, duration and nature of antiretroviral therapy. Lipid parameters, weight and calculated cardiovascular risk using 5-year reduced DAD score algorithm [Friis-Møller et al. in Eur J Cardiovasc Prev Rehabil 17:491–501, 2010] were analyzed in each groups.

Results

Switching from TDF to TAF resulted in a significant increase in triglycerides levels, total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol. LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol/HDL ratio did not show significant changes. Calculated cardiovascular risk increased after switch from TDF- to TAF-based therapy.

Conclusions

Together with favorable outcomes at the bone and kidney levels, potential negative impact of TAF on lipid profile should be included in the reflection to propose the most appropriate and tailored ARV treatment.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-021-06479-9.

Effectiveness and safety of first-line antiretroviral regimens in clinical practice: a multicentre cohort study

OBJECTIVES

We compared 48 week effectiveness and safety of first-line antiretroviral regimens.

METHODS

We analysed HIV treatment-naive adults from the Cohort of the Spanish HIV/AIDS Research Network (CoRIS) starting the most commonly used antiretroviral regimens from 2014 to 2018. We used multivariable regression models to assess the impact of initial regimen on: (i) viral suppression (VS) (viral load <50 copies/mL); (ii) change in CD4 cell count; (iii) CD4/CD8 normalization (>0.4 and >1); (iv) CD4 percentage normalization (>29%); (v) multiple T-cell marker recovery (MTMR: CD4 > 500 cells/mm3 plus CD4 percentage >29% plus CD4/CD8 > 1); (vi) lipid, creatinine and transaminase changes; and (vii) discontinuations due to adverse events (AE).

RESULTS

Among 3945 individuals analysed, the most frequently prescribed regimens were ABC/3TC/DTG (34.0%), TAF/FTC/EVG/CBT (17.2%), TDF/FTC + DTG (11.9%), TDF/FTC/EVG/CBT (11.7%), TDF/FTC/RPV (11.5%), TDF/FTC + bDRV (8.3%) and TDF/FTC + RAL (5.3%). At 48 weeks, 89.7% of individuals achieved VS with no significant differences by initial regimen. CD4 mean increase was 257.8 (249.3; 266.2) cells/mm3, and it was lower with TAF/FTC/EVG/CBT and TDF/FTC/RPV compared with ABC/3TC/DTG. CD4 percentage normalization was less likely with TAF/FTC/EVG/CBT, and MTMR was less likely with TAF/FTC/EVG/CBT and TDF/FTC + RAL. The proportion of discontinuations due to AE was higher with TDF/FTC + bDRV (9.7%), followed by TDF/FTC/EVG/CBT (9.5%) and TDF/FTC + DTG (7.9%). Compared with ABC/3TC/DTG, cholesterol and LDL mean increases were higher with TAF/FTC/EVG/CBT and lower with TDF/FTC + DTG, TDF/FTC/RPV and TDF/FTC + RAL. Higher mean increases in triglycerides were significantly associated with TAF/FTC/EVG/CBT. Regimens containing DTG showed higher creatinine increases.

CONCLUSIONS

The significantly greater immunological response and safety of some combinations may be useful for making decisions when initiating treatment.

Arterial structure and function in Africans with HIV for > 5 years: longitudinal relationship with endothelial activation and cardiovascular risk markers

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to determine whether people with human immunodeficiency virus (PWHIV) have increased measures of arterial injury [carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT)] and large artery stiffness [carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV)] when compared with their counterparts without HIV, and whether baseline markers of endothelial activation and cardiovascular risk are associated with cIMT and cfPWV after 5 years.

METHODS

We matched 126 PWHIV from North West Province, South Africa, to 126 without HIV according to age, sex and locality. Cardiovascular risk and endothelial function markers [soluble intracellular adhesion molecule (ICAM-1) and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM-1)] were measured at baseline and cIMT and cfPWV at follow-up.

RESULTS

This study included 21.4% men. The use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) increased from 44.1% at baseline to 81.4% at follow-up. At follow-up, cIMT (P = 0.90) and cfPWV (P = 0.35) were similar in the groups. Despite elevated ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 in the PWHIV (all P < 0.001) at baseline, these markers did not associate with cIMT and cfPWV after 5 years. In multivariable-adjusted regression analysis, cIMT associated positively with age (β = 0.31, P = 0.002) and triglyceride: high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (β = 0.23, P = 0.016) in PWHIV. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) (β = 0.28, P = 0.010) associated positively with cfPWV in the PWHIV. In the people without HIV, sex (β = 0.31, P = 0.004) and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) (β = 0.24, P = 0.026) associated with cIMT while age (β = 0.17, P = 0.049), sex (β = 0.29, P = 0.003), MAP (β = 0.31, P = 0.001) and HbA1c (β = 0.21, P = 0.041) associated positively with cfPWV.

CONCLUSIONS

Measures of arterial structure and function were similar in Africans with HIV and their age, sex and locality matched controls. Traditional cardiovascular risk markers rather than elevated endothelial activation at baseline were independently associated with cIMT and cfPWV over 5 years.

Prevalence of dyslipidaemia among HIV-infected patients receiving combination antiretroviral therapy in North Shewa, Ethiopia

Background

Data on the burden of dyslipidaemia among people with HIV undergoing antiretroviral therapy (ART) in sub-Saharan Africa are limited and little is known about the factors contributing for poor lipid profiles. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of dyslipidaemia and factors associated with lipid levels among HIV-infected patients receiving first-line combination ART in North Shewa, Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted between April and December 2018 among 392 HIV-infected adults receiving first-line ART for at least six months at the ART clinic of Mehal Meda Hospital in North Shewa, Ethiopia. Blood samples were collected for determination of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), and CD4 counts. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine factors associated with lipid abnormalities.

Results

The prevalence of dyslipidaemia was 59.9% (95% CI 55.0–64.7%). High TC, high TG, low HDL-c, and high LDL-c were obtained in 47.3%, 30.9%, 19.4% and 29.6%, respectively. Fifty-four participants (13.8%) had high ratio of TC/HDL-c (TC/HDL-c ratio ≥ 5). Older age was independently associated with high TC (AOR = 2.51, 95% CI 1.64–3.84), high TG (AOR = 2.95, 95% CI 1.85–4.71), low HDL–c (AOR = 2.02, 95% CI 1.17–3.50), and high LDL–c (AOR = 3.37, 95% CI 2.08–5.47). Living in an urban area (AOR = 2.61, 95% CI 1.16–6.14) and smoking (AOR = 3.61, 95% CI 1.06–12.34) were associated with low HDL–c. Participants with longer duration of ART use were more likely to have high TG (AOR = 1.86, 95% CI: 1.13–3.07), low HDL–c (AOR = 3.47, 95% CI: 1.75–6.80), and high LDL–c (AOR = 2.20, 95% CI 1.30–3.71). High BMI was independently associated with higher TC (AOR = 2.43, 95% CI 1.19–4.97), high TG (AOR = 4.17, 95% CI 2.01–8.67) and high LDL–c (AOR = 6.53, 95% CI 3.05–13.98).

Conclusions

We found a high prevalence of dyslipidaemia among HIV-infected patients receiving first-line ART in North Shewa, Ethiopia. There is a need for monitoring of blood lipid levels in patients with HIV on long term first-line ART with a special attention to be focused on older age, urban residents, longer duration of ART use, high BMI and smokers.

Coronary artery disease in patients with human immunodeficiency virus infection

The life expectancy of people infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is rising due to better access to combination anti-retroviral therapy (ART). Although ART has reduced acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) related mortality and morbidity, there has been an increase in non-AIDS defining illnesses such as diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia and coronary artery disease (CAD). HIV is a disease marked by inflammation which has been associated with specific biological vascular processes increasing the risk of premature atherosclerosis. The combination of pre-existing risk factors, atherosclerosis, ART, opportunistic infections and coagulopathy contributes to rising CAD incidence. The prevalence of CAD has emerged as a major contributor of morbidity in these patients due to longer life expectancy. However, ART has been associated with lipodystrophy, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus and CAD. These adverse effects, along with drug-drug interactions when ART is combined with cardiovascular drugs, result in significant challenges in the care of this group of patients. Exercise tolerance testing, echocardiography, myocardial perfusion imaging, coronary computed tomography angiography and magnetic resonance imaging help in the diagnosis of CAD and heart failure and help predict cardiovascular outcomes in a manner similar to non-infected individuals. This review will highlight the pathogenesis and factors that link HIV to CAD, presentation and treatment of HIV-patients presenting with CAD and review briefly the cardiac imaging modalities used to identify this entity and help prognosticate future outcomes.

Cross-talk between lipid homeostasis and endoplasmic reticulum stress in neurodegeneration: Insights for HIV-1 associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND)

The dysregulation of lipid homeostasis is emerging as a hallmark of many CNS diseases. As aberrant protein regulation is suggested to be a shared pathological feature amongst many neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and Huntington's disease (HD), disruptions in neuronal lipid processing may contribute to disease progression in the CNS. Specifically, given the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) dual role in lipid homeostasis as well as protein quality control (PQC) via unfolded protein response (UPR), lipid dysregulation in the CNS may converge on ER functioning and constitute a crucial mechanism underlying aberrant protein aggregation. In the current review, we discuss the diverse roles of lipid species as essential components of the CNS. Moreover, given the importance of both lipid dysregulation and protein aggregation in pathology of CNS diseases, we attempt to assess the potential downstream cross-talk between lipid dysregulation and ER dependent PQC mechanisms, with special focus on HIV-associated neurodegenerative disorders (HAND).

The University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences (UZ-CHS) BIRTH COHORT study: rationale, design and methods

BACKGROUND

Commencing lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART) immediately following HIV diagnosis (Option B+), has greatly improved maternal-infant health. Thus, large and increasing numbers of HIV-infected women are on ART during pregnancy, a situation concurrently increasing numbers of HIV-exposed-uninfected (HEU) infants. Compared to their HIV-unexposed-uninfected (HUU) counterparts, HEU infants show higher rates of adverse birth outcomes, mortality, infectious/non-communicable diseases including impaired growth and neurocognitive development. There is an urgent need to understand the impact of HIV and early life ART exposures, immune-metabolic dysregulation, comorbidities and environmental confounders on adverse paediatric outcomes.

METHODS

Six hundred (600) HIV-infected and 600 HIV-uninfected pregnant women ≥20 weeks of gestation will be enrolled from four primary health centres in high density residential areas of Harare. Participants will be followed up as mother-infant-pairs at delivery, week(s) 1, 6, 10, 14, 24, 36, 48, 72 and 96 after birth. Clinical, socio-economic, nutritional and environmental data will be assessed for adverse birth outcomes, impaired growth, immune/neurodevelopment, vertical transmission of HIV, hepatitis-B/C viruses, cytomegalovirus and syphilis. Maternal urine, stool, plasma, cord blood, amniotic fluid, placenta and milk including infant plasma, dried blood spot and stool will be collected at enrolment and follow-up visits. The composite primary endpoint is stillbirth and infant mortality within the first two years of life in HEU versus HUU infants. Maternal mortality in HIV-infected versus -uninfected women is another primary outcome. Secondary endpoints include a range of maternal and infant outcomes. Sub-studies will address maternal stress and malnutrition, maternal-infant latent tuberculosis, Helicobacter pylori infections, immune-metabolomic dysregulation including gut, breast milk and amniotic fluid dysbiosis.

DISCUSSION

The University of Zimbabwe-College of Health-Sciences-Birth-Cohort study will provide a comprehensive assessment of risk factors and biomarkers for HEU infants' adverse outcomes. This will ultimately help developing strategies to mitigate effects of maternal HIV, early-life ART exposures and comorbidities on infants' mortality and morbidity.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrial.gov Identifier: NCT04087239 . Registered 12 September 2019.

Early scale-up of antiretroviral therapy at diagnosis for reducing economic burden of cardiometabolic disease in HIV-infected population

OBJECTIVE

The current study aims to assess the effect of early scale-up of antiretroviral therapy (ART) at HIV diagnosis on the economic burden of cardiometabolic diseases (CMDs) in HIV-infected population.

DESIGN

Cohort study.

METHODS

The study cohort comprised 10 693 newly diagnosed HIV patients without CMDs before HIV diagnosis identified from a nationwide HIV cohort in Taiwan. The patients were stratified by ART use [medication possession ratio ≥0.8: (high) vs. <0.8: (low)] and AIDS-defining illnesses (ADI) status [present: (+) vs. absent: (-)] at the first year of HIV diagnosis into four groups: ART (low) and ADI (-), ART (low) and ADI (+), ART (high) and ADI (-), and ART (high) and ADI (+). The economic analysis of incident CMDs was from the perspective of Taiwan's single-payer healthcare system and estimated using generalized estimating equations.

RESULTS

CMDs significantly increased annual direct medical costs by 31% (hypertension) to 127% [cardiovascular diseases (CVDs)]. The annual cost burden of diabetes, dyslipidemia, and CVDs in the ART (high) and ADI (-) group significantly decreased by 42, 30, and 31%, respectively, compared with the ART (low) and ADI (+) group. Compared with the ART (low) and ADI (+) group, the annual cost burden of CVDs in the ART (high) and ADI (-) and ART (high) and ADI (+) groups decreased by 31 and 14%, respectively, suggesting increased cost-savings when ART is initiated at diagnosis before ADI occurrence.

CONCLUSION

The early scale-up of ART at diagnosis before ADI occurrence is important for minimizing the economic burden of incident CMDs among HIV-infected patients.

CD4 Cell Counts, Lipid Profile, and Oral Manifestations in HIV-Infected and AIDS Patients

Objectives

The present study aimed to evaluate CD4 cell counts, lipid profile, and oral manifestations in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients and their correlation with seronegative controls.

Materials and Methods

In this cross-sectional, hospital-based study, there were three groups of subjects: group A consisting of 500 healthy patients (controls), group B composed of 500 HIV-infected patients, and group C comprised of 500 AIDS patients based on their CD4 cell counts. CD4 cell counts were assessed using the CyFlow counter. Lipid profile was evaluated with the Erba EM 360 analyzer.

Results

The results were statistically significant for CD4 cell counts (P<0.001). The levels of total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) were significantly decreased while triglycerides (TGs) and very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDLs) were significantly increased in AIDS patients compared to the controls and HIV-infected patients. Various results were obtained regarding oral manifestations with different levels of significance.

Conclusion

CD4 cell counts, TC, LDLs, TGs, and VLDLs were significantly changed in HIV-infected and AIDS patients compared to the controls.

Efficacy and Tolerability of Lopinavir/Ritonavir- and Efavirenz-Based Initial Antiretroviral Therapy in HIV-1-Infected Patients in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Beijing, China

Background: Lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r) is a major antiretroviral treatment in China, but little is known about the performance of first-line LPV/r-based regimen in treatment-naïve patients with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection. This study aims to assess the efficacy and adverse effect events of LPV/r plus lamivudine and tenofovir or zidovudine as an initial antiretroviral treatment in HIV-1-infected individuals for whom cannot take efavirenz (EFV) or is allergic to EFV. Methods: We performed a retrospective study of patients registering with the China's National Free Antiretroviral Treatment Program from July 2012 to January 2017, followed at a tertiary care hospital in Beijing, China. The primary outcome was the proportion of subjects with HIV-1 RNA ≤40 copies/ml at 6 and 24 months of treatment. We assessed the immunological response and adverse events. Results: In total, 4,862 patients were enrolled in the study and 237 were eligible for analysis in each study arm. During the first six months, virological suppression was better with the LPV/r-based regimen than with the EFV-based regimen (93.80 vs 87.80% for P < 0.05). Viral suppression rates continued to increase until 12 months, remain steady thereafter until 24 months, for both groups. The multilevel analysis revealed that patients in the LPV/r group were more likely to display improvements in CD4 T-cell count over time than those in the EFV group (P < 0.001). Grade 3 or 4 laboratory adverse events were observed in 14 patients (5.91%) from the LPV/r group and three patients (1.20%) in EFV group. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that LPV/r-containing regimens are effective and well-tolerated in Chinese treatment-naïve patients with HIV-1 infection.

Cardiovascular risk factors among Ghanaian patients with HIV: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) poses a significant cause of morbidity and mortality among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). However, data are limited on CVD risk burden among HIV patients in Ghana. We describe the age- and sex-adjusted prevalence of CVD risk factors among HIV patients in Ghana.

METHODS

From January 2013 to May 2014, we identified eligible HIV patients 18 years and older, as well as uninfected adult blood donors presenting to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital as controls. Using a standardized protocol, we collected demographic, clinical, laboratory, and electrocardiographic data. We created multivariable logistic regression models to compare the prevalence of abnormal risk factors between the two groups.

RESULTS

We recruited 345 patients with HIV (n = 173 on HAART, n = 172 not on HAART) and 161 uninfected adult blood donors. Patients with HIV were older (mean [SD] age: 41 [11] vs 32 [11] years) and were more likely to be female (72% vs 28%) than blood donors. Among patients on HAART, median (interquartile range) treatment duration was 17 (4-52) months. The prevalence of hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and diabetes mellitus among HIV patients was 9%, 29%, and 5%, respectively, compared with 5%, 15%, and 0.6% among uninfected blood donors. Smoking was the least prevalent CVD risk factor (1%-2%). After adjustment for age, sex, and body mass index, HIV patients had a 10-fold higher odds of prevalent diabetes compared with controls, (adjusted OR = 10.3 [95% CI: 1.2, 86.7]).

CONCLUSION

CVD risk factors are common among HIV patients in Ghana, demonstrating the urgent need for creation and implementation of strategic CVD interventions.

The Use of Two-Dimensional Strain Measured by Speckle Tracking in the Identification of Incipient Ventricular Dysfunction in HIV-Infected Patients on Antiretroviral Therapy, Untreated HIV Patients and Healthy Controls

BACKGROUND

Most cardiovascular abnormalities in patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have been associated with myocardial damage directly caused by the virus. Some cases, however, may be associated with adverse effects from antiretroviral therapy (ART). New ventricular function assessment techniques are capable of detecting early changes in the cardiac function of HIV-infected patients using or not using ART. The usefulness of these techniques has been little employed in these patients.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the potential influence of antiretroviral therapy (ART) on the occurrence of subclinical left ventricular systolic dysfunction evaluated by myocardial strain rate analysis using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2-D Echo) in treated HIV patients compared to untreated patients and healthy individuals.

METHODS

Sixty-eight HIV-infected patients with no cardiovascular symptoms, normal left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (> 0.55 on 2-D Echo) were divided into three groups: 11 patients not using antiretroviral therapy (NT), 24 using protease inhibitor (PI) and 33 using non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI). We also studied 30 normal non-HIV infected individuals (Ctrl). Demographic, clinical, biochemical and anthropometric data were collected. Preliminary transthoracic echocardiography included study of myocardial strain using two-dimensional speckle tracking. We studied strain and strain rate in the seventeen left ventricular (LV) myocardial segments in the longitudinal, circumferential and radial axes. Statistical analysis of the data was done with IBM SPSS - version 20 for Windows. Upon analysis of the data, namely the normality of independent variables in the different groups and the homogeneity of the variances between the groups, Kruskal-Wallis' non-parametric test was done, followed by Dunn's multiple comparison tests to test the significance of the differences between the values measured in the study groups. A significance level of 5% was adopted for decision-making on statistical tests.

RESULTS

The mean age of HIV patients was 40 ± 8.65 years and the mean age of controls was 50 ± 11.6 years (p < 0.001). Median LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) of NT patients (-17.70%), PI patients (-18.27%) and NNRTIs (-18.47%) were significantly lower than that of the Ctrl group (-20.77%; p = 0.001). There was no significant difference in mean SLG between treated patients (PI, NNRTI) and untreated (NT) patients. No significant differences were observed in mean circumferential and radial strain, nor on circumferential and radial strain rates between the NT, PI, NNRTI and Ctrl groups.

CONCLUSION

The data suggest that HIV patients present, on myocardial strain measured by speckle tracking, signs of early LV systolic dysfunction that seem to be unrelated to the presence of ART. The prognostic significance of this condition in these patients deserves further studies.

Association between sociodemographic and behavioral factors with metabolic syndrome in people living with HIV

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the association between sociodemographic and behavioral factors with the metabolic syndrome in people living with HIV.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was carried out in specialized outpatient clinics in Ribeirão Preto - SP city, between October 2014 and October 2016. The criteria of the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III and the International Diabetes Federation were used for the evaluation of metabolic syndrome. Individual interviews were conducted and the Chi-square and Fisher's exact test was used.

RESULTS

340 patients were evaluated, 28.5% (n=97) with metabolic syndrome by the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criterion, and 39.4% (n=134) by the International Diabetes Federation. There was an association between MS and the variables gender (ATP: p<0.001, p=0.002), age (ATP: p<0.001, IDF: p<0.001), schooling (ATP: p=0.003, IDF: p=0.003), marital status (ATP: p=0.003, IDF: p=0.022), work status (ATP: p=0.003; IDF: p=0.024), smoking (ATP: p=0.037, IDF: p=0.033) and leisure activities (ATP: p=0.010, IDF: p=0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

There are significant associations between the metabolic syndrome, sociodemographic and behavioral factors in people living with HIV.

Long-term treatment with atazanavir (ATV) in real life in Belgium: a retrospective observational cohort of 2264 HIV patients. Acta Clin Belg 2019;74:143-150. [PMID: 29718781 DOI: 10.1080/17843286.2018.1462753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0]

OBJECTIVES

This 5-year follow-up study aimed to assess clinical outcomes of HIV-1 infected adults treated with atazanavir (ATV) in clinical practice in Belgium, to describe patient profiles and characteristics, as well as treatment safety.

METHODS

A multicenter, non-interventional, non-comparative, retrospective cohort study was performed in HIV-1 positive adult patients treated with ATV between 2006 and 2012. Data were collected from 8 AIDS reference centers' databases. All analyses were on-treatment. Sub-analyses were carried out in unboosted ATV treated patients and in females. The primary endpoint was defined as the time-to-treatment-discontinuation. Furthermore, virological suppression, immunological response, time to loss of virological response, reasons for ATV initiation, and discontinuation were also assessed.

RESULTS

2264 ARV-naive and ARV-experienced patients (median age: 41 years) were included. Females and non-Caucasians were broadly represented (40 and 45%, respectively). The probability to remain on treatment was 0.78 (CI: 0.76; 0.78) for the first and 0.69 (CI: 0.66; 0.71) for the second year and was similar between males and females. Overall, 771 patients (34.1%) discontinued ATV over time, the median (Q1-Q3) time to discontinuation being 0.8 (0.3-1.5) year. In unboosted ATV-treated patients, results were comparable to the overall ATV population, except for a higher rate of discontinuation-over-time (45.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical and safety data from this 5 year-cohort study show that the vast majority of patients remained on ATV treatment for the first and second years, overall as well as patients treated with unboosted ATV and females.

Lipid profile and renal safety of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate-based anti-retroviral therapy in HIV-infected Chinese patients

BACKGROUND

Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) is an important component of antiretroviral therapy (ART) that has been widely used. The aim of this study was to observe the long-term impact of TDF-based ART on lipid metabolism profiles and renal functions in Chinese patients.

METHODS

414 and 124 HIV-infected, ART-naïve patients who initiated TDF-based regimens and non-TDF regimens respectively were retrospectively included. Demographic characteristics and clinical information of each patient was collected. Changes of lipid profiles and renal function, as well as the risk factors of hyperlipidemia and renal dysfunction were analyzed.

RESULTS

After 96 weeks of ART, HIV viral loads were undetectable in 97.34% (403/414) of patients exposed to TDF. The plasma total cholesterol (TCH) increased from 3.97 ± 0.83 mmol/L to 4.53 ± 0.87 mmol/L (P < 0.001), which did not show a significant difference comparing with non-TDF exposed group. By contrast, the plasma triglyceride (TG) levels increased, but were still lower than that in the non-TDF exposed group (0.26 ± 1.24 vs. 0.89 ± 1.78, P < 0.001). The mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decreased from 127.29 ± 24.04ml∙min^-1∙1.73 m^-2 at baseline to 118.84 ± 22.74 ml∙min^-1∙1.73 m^-2(P < 0.001) in the TDF exposed group, while it increased in the non-TDF exposed group. In the TDF group, high body mass index (BMI) (OR = 1.13, P = 0.01), high baseline TG (OR = 2.33, P<0.001) and receiving protease inhibitors (PIs) (OR = 7.58, P < 0.001) were associated with hypertriglyceridemia after ART, while high baseline TCH predicted hypercholesterolemia (OR = 3.58, P < 0.001). MSM (OR = 0.22, P = 0.02) and baseline eGFR (OR = 0.90, P < 0.001) was associated with renal dysfunction after ART.

CONCLUSIONS

TDF-based regimens are of good therapeutic effect among Chinese people. These regimens showed a better plasma lipid profile but mild renal dysfunction as compared to non-TDF based regimens. Patients with high BMI, high baseline TG, high baseline TCH and low baseline eGFR should be closely monitored when using TDF-based ART.

HIV and cardiovascular diseases risk: exploring the interplay between T-cell activation, coagulation, monocyte subsets, and lipid subclass alterations

Although rollout of combined antiretroviral treatment (cART) has blunted human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) onset, there is increased development of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in HIV-infected individuals. While most HIV-infected individuals on cART achieve viral suppression, this may not necessarily result in complete immunological recovery. This study therefore evaluated T-cell-mediated changes and coagulation markers in HIV-positive individuals to ascertain their potential to increase CVD risk. Eighty participants were recruited (Worcester, South Africa), and fasted blood was collected to evaluate: 1) immune activation (CD38 expression on CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells) and thrombus formation [tissue factor (CD142)] on CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells; 2) monocyte subpopulations (nonclassical, intermediate, and classical); and 3) classical regulatory T (Treg) cells with activation markers [glycoprotein A repetitions predominant (GARP) and special AT-rich sequence-binding protein 1 (SATB-1)]. High- and low-density lipoprotein subclasses (Lipoprint) were also determined. This study revealed four key findings for HIV-positive patients: 1) coexpression of the CD142 coagulation marker together with immune activation on both CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells during chronic infection stages; 2) Treg cell activation and upregulated GARP and SATB-1 contributing to Treg dysfunction in chronic HIV; 3) proatherogenic monocyte subset expansion with significant correlation between T-cell activation and macrophage activation (marker: CD163); and 4) significant correlation between immune activation and lipid subclasses, revealing crucial changes that can be missed by traditional lipid marker assessments (LDL and HDL). These data also implicate lipopolysaccharide-binding protein as a crucial link between immune activation, lipid alterations, and increased CVD risk. NEW & NOTEWORTHY With combined antiretroviral treatment rollout, HIV-AIDS patients are increasingly associated with cardiovascular diseases onset. This study demonstrated the significant interplay between adaptive immune cell activation and monocyte/macrophage markers in especially HIV-positive individuals with virological failure and on second line treatment. Our data also show a unique link between immune activation and lipid subclass alterations, revealing important changes that can be missed by traditional lipid marker assessments (e.g., LDL and HDL).

Nutritional Issues and Positive Living in Human Immunodeficiency Virus/AIDS

Nutritional counseling has been shown to improve dietary intake in individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/AIDS. Registered dietitians/nutritionists can individualize diet interventions to optimize effectiveness in treating metabolic consequences of the HIV infection or highly active antiretroviral therapy. Nutrition management for individuals infected with HIV can be helpful in maintaining lean body weight, combating oxidative stress, reducing complications from hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia, and managing gastrointestinal function. Consideration should be given to including the expertise of a registered dietitian/nutritionist.

Dyslipidaemias in women using hormonal contraceptives: a cross sectional study in Mulago Hospital Family Planning Clinic, Kampala, Uganda

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence and factors associated with dyslipidaemias in women using hormonal contraceptives.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study SETTING: Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda PARTICIPANTS: Three hundred and eighty-four consenting women, aged 18-49 years, who had used hormonal contraceptives for at least 3 months prior to the study.

STUDY OUTCOME

Dyslipidaemias (defined as derangements in lipid profile levels which included total cholesterol ≥200 mg/dL, high-density lipoprotein <40 mg/dL, triglyceride >150 mg/dL or low-density lipoprotein ≥160 mg/dL) for which the prevalence and associated factors were obtained.

RESULTS

The prevalence of dyslipidaemias was 63.3% (95% CI: 58.4 to 68.1). Body mass index (BMI) (PR=1.33, 95% CI: 1.15 to 1.54, p<0.001) and use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) (PR=1.21, 95% CI: 1.03 to 1.42, p=0.020) were the factors significantly associated with dyslipidaemias.

CONCLUSION

Dyslipidaemias were present in more than half the participants, and this puts them at risk for cardiovascular diseases. The high-risk groups were women with a BMI greater than 25 Kg/m² and those who were on ART. Therefore, lipid profiles should be assessed in women using hormonal contraceptives in order to manage them better.

The metabolic syndrome and renal function in an African cohort infected with human immunodeficiency virus

INTRODUCTION

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is often accompanied by renal dysfunction. It is expected that metabolic syndrome (MetS) may exacerbate renal impairment.

OBJECTIVE

We therefore determined the prevalence of MetS and the association thereof with renal function in a South African cohort infected with HIV.

METHODS

We matched 114 HIV-infected (77.3% on antiretroviral therapy [ART] and 22.7% ART-naïve) and 114 HIV-uninfected individuals according to age, sex and locality. We examined cardiovascular, anthropometric and metabolic measurements and determined the MetS. Renal function was assessed using standardised procedures.

RESULTS

The prevalence of MetS was lower in the HIV-infected individuals as compared to the uninfected individuals (28% vs. 44%, p = 0.013). The HIV-infected group presented with a lower body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) (all p < 0.001), as well as blood pressure (BP) (p ≤ 0.0021). The results were confirmed when comparing the HIV-infected group using ART (N = 85) and the HIV-uninfected group. When comparing the HIV-infected individuals with MetS to the HIV-uninfected individuals with MetS, no differences in BP were seen. With regard to renal function, the HIV-infected individuals with MetS (n = 32) had 43% higher urinary albumin-creatinine ratio (uACR) compared to the HIV-uninfected individuals with MetS, after adjusting for age, sex and WC (p = 0.032). None of the other renal function markers differed after adjustments for WC or BMI.

CONCLUSION

The HIV-infected Africans with MetS had almost twofold higher uACR, despite the low prevalence of MetS, compared to their uninfected counterparts. The combination of HIV and MetS seemed to increase the risk for renal impairment.

Cholesterol efflux responds to viral load and CD4 counts in HIV+ patients and is dampened in HIV exposed

Cholesterol efflux (CE) capacity has been inversely associated with atherosclerosis and may provide an insight on inflammation occurring in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) individuals. We address this by studying CE in HIV patients at different stages of HIV disease progression. In this cross-sectional study, CE from ApoB-depleted plasma, lipids levels, viral load (VL), CD4+/CD8+ T-cells, high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), and lipoprotein (a) were evaluated in untreated HIV-infected patients (UHIVs; n = 43), elite controllers (ECs; n = 8), HIV-exposed seronegative individuals (HESNs; n = 32), and healthy controls (HCs; n = 14). Among UHIVs, those with CD4+ <500 cells/mm³ presented the lowest significant CE, HDL cholesterol (HDL-C), and ApoAI levels. ECs showed similar HDL-C, ApoAI, and CE compared with HCs. Among UHIVs, CE positively correlated with CD4+ T-cell counts (Beta: 1.05; 95% CI: 1.02; 1.07), and for VL higher than 3.8 log, CE was inversely associated with VL (Beta: 0.70; 95% CI: 0.51; 0.95). Remarkably, HESNs presented higher CE (0.78 ± 0.14) than UHIVs (0.65 ± 0.17; P = 0.0005), but lower than HCs (0.90 ± 0.13; P = 0.009). hsCRP levels were highest in the UHIV group (0.45 ± 0.49). CE was sensitive to HIV disease progression. Low CE in HIV patients was associated with lower CD4+ T-cells and higher VL and hsCRP. CE was also lower in HESNs compared with HCs. Our results suggest that immune status secondary to HIV progression and exposure influence plasma HDL-CE capacity.

Effect of antiretroviral therapy on allele-associated Lp(a) level in women with HIV in the Women's Interagency HIV Study

We previously demonstrated an association between lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] levels and atherosclerosis in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-seropositive women. The effects of antiretroviral therapy (ART) on Lp(a) levels in relation to apo(a) size polymorphism remain unclear. ART effects on allele-specific apo(a) level (ASL), an Lp(a) level associated with individual apo(a) alleles within each allele-pair, were determined in 126 HIV-seropositive women. ART effects were tested by a mixed-effects model across pre-ART and post-ART first and third visits. Data from 120 HIV-seronegative women were used. The mean age was 38 years; most were African-American (∼70%). Pre-ART ASLs associated with the larger (4.6 mg/dl vs. 8.0 mg/dl, P = 0.024) or smaller (13 mg/dl vs. 19 mg/dl, P = 0.041) apo(a) sizes were lower in the HIV-seropositive versus HIV-seronegative group, as was the prevalence of a high Lp(a) level (P = 0.013). Post-ART ASL and prevalence of high Lp(a) or apo(a) sizes and frequency of small size apo(a) (22 kringles) did not differ between the two groups. ART increased Lp(a) level (from 18 to 24 mg/dl, P < 0.0001) and both ASLs (P < 0.001). In conclusion, regardless of genetic control, Lp(a) can be modulated by HIV and its treatment. ART initiation abrogates HIV-induced suppression of Lp(a) levels and ASLs, contributing to promote CVD risk in HIV-seropositive individuals.

Lower Blood Alcohol Concentration Among HIV-Positive Versus HIV-Negative Individuals Following Controlled Alcohol Administration

BACKGROUND

Although it has been purported that HIV-positive individuals may experience a greater degree of intoxication than HIV-negative individuals following acute alcohol consumption, no research to date has empirically tested this supposition. The present investigation entailed a randomized controlled experiment to identify whether the administration of a weight-specified dose of alcohol would lead to differential blood alcohol concentrations (BACs) among HIV-positive versus HIV-negative men.

METHODS

In a specialized barroom laboratory, 143 men (n = 76 HIV-positive and n = 67 HIV-negative; mean age = 42.9) consumed beverages based on a formulation of 0.7 g alcohol/kg body weight over a 15-minute time frame. BAC was assessed via breathalyzer at 2 set time points (10 and 13 minutes postconsumption) and then periodically until detoxification (BAC < 0.040%). Primary outcomes included (i) area under the curve (AUC), calculated based on all of one's BAC readings, (ii) "BAC-EXP," defined as one's BAC reading 13 minutes postconsumption, and (iii) BAC-PEAK, defined as one's highest recorded BAC reading.

RESULTS

Contrary to predictions, AUC (t(141) = 2.23, p = 0.027), BAC-EXP (t(141) = 2.68, p = 0.008), and BAC-PEAK (t(141) = 2.29, p = 0.023) were significantly lower among HIV-positive versus HIV-negative participants. These effects were sustained in multivariable models controlling for age, race, and AUDIT-based hazardous drinking classification. Among the HIV-positive sample, outcomes did not significantly differ based on HIV viral load detectability, antiretroviral therapy (ART) status, or ART adherence.

CONCLUSIONS

The administration of a controlled, weight-specified dose of alcohol led to lower BACs among HIV-positive versus HIV-negative participants. These differences might derive from decreased body fat percentage and delayed gastric emptying associated with HIV seropositivity; however, additional research is necessary to verify these mechanisms. Unique alcohol dosing formulas based on HIV serostatus may be required in future alcohol administration experiments involving HIV-positive samples.

Adverse reactions associated with first-line regimens in patient initiating antiretroviral therapy

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the prevalence of adverse drug reactions (ADR) and associated factors during the use of Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) in patients initiating treatment.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional analysis of a prospective study conducted in three public referral services specialized in HIV/AIDS care in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Self-reported ADR and explanatory variables were obtained from face-to-face interview and from Information Systems. Associated factors with ADR were evaluated by logistic regression in SPSS software v.22.

RESULTS

We included 399 patients, of which 85.5% reported at least one and 72.7% up to 5 ADRs after HAART initiation. Neurological reactions were the most frequent, with self-reported ADRs being distinct according to HAART regimen used. The global model showed higher chance of ADRs among females (OR = 3.52) and illicit drug users (OR = 2.28). Lower chance of ADRs was found for patients aged > 33 years (OR = 0.37), DTG/TDF/3TC users (OR = 0.41), and higher physical domain of quality of life (OR = 0.78). The model restricted to patients using the single-tablet regimen EFV/TDF/3TC showed lower ADRs among patients with CD4+ T lymphocyte count > 200 cells/mm³ (OR = 0.23) and higher independence domain of quality of life (OR = 0.74). The model restricted to DTG/TDF/3TC and to other regimens showed lower ADRs with higher physical domain of quality of life (OR = 0.74 and OR = 0.55, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of self-reported ADRs to first-line antiretroviral regimens was high and patients using DTG/TDF/3TC had a smaller number of ADRs. In addition to HAART regimen, sociodemographic, clinical, and quality of life characteristics were associated with ADRs.

HIV treatment is associated with a two-fold higher probability of raised triglycerides: Pooled Analyses in 21 023 individuals in sub-Saharan Africa

BACKGROUND

Anti-retroviral therapy (ART) regimes for HIV are associated with raised levels of circulating triglycerides (TG) in western populations. However, there are limited data on the impact of ART on cardiometabolic risk in sub-Saharan African (SSA) populations.

METHODS

Pooled analyses of 14 studies comprising 21 023 individuals, on whom relevant cardiometabolic risk factors (including TG), HIV and ART status were assessed between 2003 and 2014, in SSA. The association between ART and raised TG (>2.3 mmol/L) was analysed using regression models.

FINDINGS

Among 10 615 individuals, ART was associated with a two-fold higher probability of raised TG (RR 2.05, 95% CI 1.51-2.77, I2=45.2%). The associations between ART and raised blood pressure, glucose, HbA1c, and other lipids were inconsistent across studies.

INTERPRETATION

Evidence from this study confirms the association of ART with raised TG in SSA populations. Given the possible causal effect of raised TG on cardiovascular disease (CVD), the evidence highlights the need for prospective studies to clarify the impact of long term ART on CVD outcomes in SSA.

Cardiovascular markers of inflammation and serum lipid levels in HIV-infected patients with undetectable viremia

Patients successfully treated for HIV infection still have an increased risk for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, which might be related not only to traditional risks, but also to inflammation and dyslipidemia. We examined the relationship of serum lipid levels with plasma biomarkers of inflammation using a composite inflammatory burden score (IBS) based on individual (>75^th percentile) measurements from the following seven markers: CD40L, tPA, MCP-1, IL-8, IL-6, hCRP and P-selectin. IBS was categorized as 0 (none of the biomarkers >75^th percentile), 1, 2 and 3 or more scores. Correlations between the IBS and lipid parameters were examined by ordered logistic regression proportional odds models to estimate the odds of more elevated biomarkers. 181 male patients with undetectable HIV-viremia were included into the study. In the multivariate model, a one-unit increase (mmol/L) of total cholesterol and triglycerides was associated with a 1.41-fold (95% CI, 1.13–1.76) and 1.37-fold (95% CI, 1.18–1.60) increased odds of having a greater IBS, respectively. Those with an IBS score ≥1 compared to none had 2.14 (95% CI, 1.43–3.20) higher odds of having a one-unit increased total cholesterol/HDL-cholesterol ratio. In successfully treated HIV-infected persons dyslipidemia was associated with inflammation.

Circulating metabolomic profile can predict dyslipidemia in HIV patients undergoing antiretroviral therapy

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Dyslipidemia in HIV-infected patients is unique and pathophysiologically associated with host factors, HIV itself and the use of antiretroviral therapy (ART). The use of nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) provides additional data to conventional lipid measurements concerning the number of lipoprotein subclasses and particle sizes.

METHODS

To investigate the ability of lipoprotein profile, we used a circulating metabolomic approach in a cohort of 103 ART-naive HIV-infected patients, who were initiating non-nucleoside analogue transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI)-based ART, and we subsequently followed up these patients for 36 months. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate the predictive power of NMR spectroscopy.

RESULTS

VLDL-metabolism (including VLDL lipid concentrations, sizes, and particle numbers), total triglycerides and lactate levels resulted in good classifiers of dyslipidemia (AUC 0.903). Total particles/HDL-P ratio was significantly higher in ART-associated dyslipidemia compared to ART-normolipidemia (p = 0.001). Large VLDL-Ps were positively associated with both LDL-triglycerides (ρ 0.682, p < 0.001) and lactate concentrations (ρ 0.416, p < 0.001), the last one a marker of mitochondrial low oxidative capacity.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that circulating metabolites have better predictive values for HIV/ART-related dyslipidemia onset than do the biochemical markers associated with conventional lipid measurements. NMR identifies changes in VLDL-P, lactate and LDL-TG as potential clinical markers of baseline HIV-dyslipidemia predisposition. Differences in circulating metabolomics, especially differences in particle size, are indicators of important derangements of mitochondrial function that are linked to ART-related dyslipidemia.

Deciphering natural control of HIV-1: A valuable strategy to achieve antiretroviral therapy termination

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has dramatically reduced HIV-1-associated morbidity and mortality, and has transformed HIV-1 infection into a manageable chronic condition by suppressing viral replication. However, despite recent patient care improvements, ART still fails to cure HIV-1 infection due to the inability to counteract immune defects and metabolic disturbances that are associated with residual inflammation alongside viral persistence. Life-long drug administration also results in multiple side-effects in patients including lipodystrophy and insulin resistance. Thus, it is critical to find new ways to reduce the length of treatment and facilitate the termination of ART, for example by boosting protective immunity. The rare ability of some individuals to naturally control HIV-1 infection despite residual inflammation could be exploited to identify molecular mechanisms involved in host protection that may function as potential therapeutic targets. In this review, we highlight evidence illustrating the molecular and metabolic advantages of HIV-1 controllers over ART treated patients that contribute to the maintenance of effective antiviral immunity.

Impact of cocaine use on protease inhibitor-associated dyslipidemia in HIV-infected adults

Previous studies have demonstrated a link between protease inhibitor (PI)-based therapy and lipid dysregulation. The main objective of this study was to examine whether cocaine use may modify PI-associated dyslipidemia in adults. Between June 2003 and June 2014, 957 human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected participants in Baltimore, Maryland were enrolled in a study that investigated HIV/antiretroviral therapy-associated comorbidities. Multiple linear and logistic regression models were fitted to examine the associations between PI therapy and lipid profiles for the pooled sample and cocaine use subgroups, respectively. Total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), TC/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio, and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) levels were positively associated with duration of PI-based therapy in long-term cocaine users (all p < 0.05). However, longer-term PI therapy was significantly associated with increased HDL-C in non-chronic cocaine users (β = 0.109, SE = 0.042, p < 0.05). The participants who received PI therapy ≥12 months and used cocaine ≥15 years were more likely to have hypertriglyceridemia (OR = 2.82, 95% CI = 1.63, 4.88) and abnormal AIP (OR = 1.73, 95% CI = 1.08, 2.79) as compared to their counterparts. Our findings showed that long-term cocaine use may exacerbate adverse effects of PI therapy on lipid metabolism, suggesting that reduced cocaine use may be considered an alternative approach to managing PI-associated dyslipidemia in chronic cocaine users with HIV infection.

Inflammatory Markers and Plasma Lipids in HIV Patients: A Correlation Analysis Study

Background

Recent evidence suggests that HIV infection, even with treatment, increases the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) and that both chronic inflammation and traditional risk factors play key roles in HIV-associated CHD.

Subjects and Methods

Patients (N=152), attending Harare HIV clinic, 26% of them male and 82% of them on antiretroviral therapy (ART), were studied. Inflammatory markers comprising of cytokines such as pro-inflammatory tumor necrosis factor-α, (TNF-α), anti-inflammatory interleukin 10, (IL-10) and highly sensitive C reactive protein (hsCRP) together with lipids were assayed using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), immuno-turbidimetric and enzymatic assays, respectively. Correlation analysis of inflammatory markers versus lipid profiles was carried out using bivariate regression analysis.

Results

Anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 and inflammatory hsCRP levels were elevated when measured in all the HIV positive patients, while TNF-α and lipid levels were within normal ranges. Pro-inflammatory TNF-α was significantly higher in ART-naive patients than ART-experienced patients, whereas the reverse was observed for anti-inflammatory IL-10 and anti-atherogenic HDL-C. Correlation analysis indicated a significant positive linear association between IL-10 and total cholesterol (TC) levels but no other correlations were found.

Conclusion

High cytokine ratio (TNF-α/IL-10) indicates higher CHD risk in ART-naive patients compared to the ART-exposed. The CHD risk could be further strengthened by interplay between inflammatory markers and high prevalence of low HDL-C. Lack of correlation between pro-inflammatory markers (hsCRP and TNF-α) with lipid fractions and correlation between anti-inflammatory IL-10 with artherogenic TC were unexpected findings, necessitating further studies in future.

The impact of dark chocolate intake on arterial elasticity in individuals with HIV/AIDS undergoing ART: a randomized, double-blind, crossover trial

An increase in the frequency of cardiovascular diseases has been observed in the HIV/AIDS population. Studies involving healthy subjects or subjects with other diseases have shown benefits of chocolate supplementation on endothelial function and vasodilation. We evaluate the impact of chocolate consumption on arterial elasticity in people living with human immunodeficiency virus - PLHIV. A double-blind, crossover trial including 110 PLHIV (19 to 59 years) on antiretroviral therapy - ART for at least 6 months and with a viral load of <500 copies per mL was conducted. All subjects were randomly assigned to 15-d dietary supplements containing dark chocolate or placebo with a 15-d washout period. Each participant received one of the two sequences: A (dark chocolate, placebo chocolate); B (placebo chocolate, dark chocolate). Arterial elasticity was measured using the HDI/PulseWave™ CR-2000 CardioVascular Profiling System®. Body composition, lipid profile, C-reactive protein, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances were also assessed. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) for repeated measures using the Stata 11.0® program was used for cross-over analysis. Most subjects were men (59.0%) and Caucasian (46.1%) and the mean age was 44.6 ± 7.1 years. The mean time since diagnosis of HIV infection was 13.7 ± 5.3 years and the mean duration of ART was 12.9 ± 4.2 years. Chocolate consumption resulted in significant alterations in the large artery elasticity index - LAEI (p = 0.049) and the mean concentration of HDL-c was higher after supplementation with dark chocolate (p = 0.045). This is the first study to evaluate the effect of chocolate on arterial elasticity in PLHIV. The results showed that dark chocolate consumption for 15 days improved the elastic properties of the LAEI in PLHIV. These findings, added to the noninvasive method used, may expand the knowledge of CVDs in this population.

Effect of chocolate and mate tea on the lipid profile of individuals with HIV/AIDS on antiretroviral therapy: A clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

HIV/AIDS is generally associated with dyslipidemia and oxidative imbalance, which are caused by the infection itself and by antiretroviral therapy (ART). The flavonoids, found in cocoa and yerba mate, have antioxidant and hypolipidemic properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the consumption of dark chocolate and mate tea on the lipid profiles of individuals with HIV/AIDS who are undergoing ART.

METHODS

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover clinical trial was conducted with 92 patients receiving ART for ≥6 mo and with viral suppression. The participants were randomized to receive either 65 g of chocolate (with 2148 mg polyphenols) or placebo chocolate (without polyphenols) or 3 g of mate tea (with 107 mg total phenols and 84.24 mg chlorogenic acid) or placebo mate (without polyphenols) for 15 d each, separated by a washout period of 15 d. The lipid profile, including determination of electronegative low-density lipoprotein, was determined after each intervention. The data were analyzed by analysis of variance using the pkcross procedure of the Stata 11.0 software.

RESULTS

Analysis of variance revealed a significant overall difference in mean high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) between all supplements (P = 0.047). Using the paired t test, the effect was attributed to the consumption of dark chocolate (P = 0.046). The other parameters investigated were not improved.

CONCLUSIONS

The consumption of dark chocolate for 15 d improved HDL-C concentrations of individuals with HIV/AIDS undergoing ART, possibly due to the presence of fatty acids (stearic acid), polyphenols, and theobromine. This fact is important for the cardiovascular protection of these individuals.

Antihypercholesterolemic Effects of Fruit Aqueous Extract of Copernicia prunifera (Miller) H. E. Moore in Mice Diet-Induced Hypercholesterolemia

The present objective of the investigation is to evaluate the antihypercholesterolemic activity of the aqueous fruit pulp extract (APE) of Copernicia prunifera (Miller) H. E. Moore (Arecaceae family). Various chemical characterization methods like thin layer chromatography, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, 1H and 13C NMR, and molecular weight by gel permeation chromatography have been employed to characterize the extracted pectin. The present study demonstrated that hypercholesterolemic diet (HD) created hypercholesterolemia, caused significant increases in body weight, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein, and caused decreases in high-density lipoprotein in serum compared with SD group. Two doses (APE 150 and 300 mg/Kg b.w./day) were administered to hyperlipidemic mice for 90 days. APE reversed body weight changes, changed serum lipids to normal values, and significantly inhibited the changes of lipid peroxidation and inflammation in the liver tissues. The renal parameters analyzed (urea and creatinine) altered by diet were reverted to normal values. Our results revealed that aqueous fruit pulp extracts of carnauba reduced hypercholesterolemia showing a potential preventive effect against cardiovascular diseases without side effects cause.

Lipoprotein(a) and HIV: Allele-Specific Apolipoprotein(a) Levels Predict Carotid Intima-Media Thickness in HIV-Infected Young Women in the Women's Interagency HIV Study

OBJECTIVE

In the general population, lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] has been established as an independent causal risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Lp(a) levels are to a major extent regulated by a size polymorphism in the apolipoprotein(a) [apo(a)] gene. The roles of Lp(a)/apo(a) in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related elevated cardiovascular disease risk remain unclear.

APPROACH AND RESULTS

The associations between total plasma Lp(a) level, allele-specific apo(a) level, an Lp(a) level carried by individual apo(a) alleles, and common carotid artery intima-media thickness were assessed in 150 HIV-infected and 100 HIV-uninfected women in the WIHS (Women's Interagency HIV Study). Linear regression analyses with and without adjustments were used. The cohort was young (mean age, ≈31 years), with the majority being Blacks (≈70%). The prevalence of a small size apo(a) (≤22 Kringle repeats) or a high Lp(a) level (≥30 mg/dL) was similar by HIV status. Total plasma Lp(a) level (P=0.029) and allele-specific apo(a) level carried by the smaller apo(a) sizes (P=0.022) were significantly associated with carotid artery intima-media thickness in the HIV-infected women only. After accounting for confounders (age, race, smoking, body mass index, blood pressure, hepatitis C virus coinfection, menopause, plasma lipids, treatment status, CD4⁺ T cell count, and HIV/RNA viral load), the association remained significant for both Lp(a) (P=0.035) and allele-specific apo(a) level carried by the smaller apo(a) sizes (P=0.010) in the HIV-infected women. Notably, none of the other lipids/lipoproteins was associated with carotid artery intima-media thickness.

CONCLUSIONS

Lp(a) and allele-specific apo(a) levels predict carotid artery intima-media thickness in HIV-infected young women. Further research is needed to identify underlying mechanisms of an increased Lp(a) atherogenicity in HIV infection.

Changes in elevated cholesterol in the era of tenofovir in South Africa: risk factors, clinical management and outcomes

OBJECTIVES

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has been associated with unfavourable lipid profile changes and increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). With a growing population on ART in South Africa, there has been concern about the increase in noncommunicable diseases such as CVD. We determined risk factors associated with increased total cholesterol (TC) in a large cohort on ART and describe the clinical management thereof.

METHODS

We conducted an observational cohort study of ART-naïve adults initiating standard first-line ART in a large urban clinic in Johannesburg, South Africa. TC was measured annually for most patients. A proportional hazards regression model was used to determine risk factors associated with incident high TC (≥ 6 mmol/L).

RESULTS

Significant risk factors included initial regimen non-tenofovir vs. tenofovir [hazard ratio (HR) 1.54; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.14-2.08], age ≥40 vs. <30 years (HR 3.22; 95% CI 2.07-4.99), body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m² (HR 1.65; 95% CI 1.18-2.31) and BMI 25-29.9 kg/m² (HR 1.70; 95% CI 1.30-2.23) vs. 18-24.9 kg/m² , and baseline CD4 count < 50 cells/μL (HR 1.55; 95% CI 1.10-2.20) and 50-99 cells/μL (HR 1.40; 95% CI 1.00-1.97) vs. > 200 cells/μL. Two-thirds of patients with high TC were given cholesterol-lowering drugs, after repeat TC measurements about 12 months apart, while 31.8% were likely to have received dietary counselling only.

CONCLUSIONS

Older age, higher BMI, lower CD4 count and a non-tenofovir regimen were risk factors for incident elevated TC. Current guidelines do not indicate regular cholesterol testing at ART clinic visits, which are the main exposure to regular clinical monitoring for most HIV-positive individuals. If regular cholesterol monitoring is conducted, improvements can be made to identify and treat patients sooner.

Role of systemic inflammation scores for prediction of clinical outcomes in patients treated with atazanavir not boosted by ritonavir in the Italian MASTER cohort

Background

Atazanavir (ATV) not boosted by ritonavir (uATV) has been frequently used in the past for switching combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). However, the clinical outcomes and predictors of such strategy are unknown.

Methods

An observational study was carried out on the Italian MASTER, selecting HIV infected patients on cART switching to an uATV-containing regimen. Baseline was set as the last visit before uATV initiation. In the primary analysis, a composite clinical end-point was defined as the first occurring of any condition among: liver, cardiovascular, kidney, diabetes, non AIDS related cancer or death events. Incidence of AIDS events and incidence of composite clinical end-point were estimated. Kaplan-Meier and multivariable Cox regression analysis were used to assess predictors of the composite clinical end-point.

Results

436 patients were observed. The majority of patients were males (61.5%) and Italians (85.3%), mean age was 42.7 years (IQR: 37.7–42), the most frequent route of transmission was heterosexual intercourse (47%), followed by injection drug use (25%) and homosexual contact (24%); the rate of HCV-Ab positivity was 16.3%. Patients were observed for a median time of 882 days (IQR: 252-1,769) under uATV. We recorded 93 clinical events (3 cardiovascular events, 20 kidney diseases, 33 liver diseases, 9 non AIDS related cancers, 21 diabetes, 7 AIDS events), and 19 deaths, accounting for an incidence of 3.7 (composite) events per 100 PYFU. At multivariable analysis, factors associated with the composite clinical end-point were intravenous drug use as risk factor for HIV acquisition vs. heterosexual intercourses [HR: 2.608, 95% CI 1.31–5.19, p = 0.0063], HIV RNA per Log₁₀ copies/ml higher [HR: 1.612, 95% CI 1.278–2.034, p < 0.0001], number of switches in the nucleoside/nucleotide (NRTI) backbone of cART (performed to compose the uATV regimen under study or occurred in the past) per each more [HR: 1.085, 95% CI 1.025–1.15, p = 0.0051], Fib-4 score per unit higher [HR: 1.03, 95% CI 1.018–1.043, p < 0.0001] and Neutrophil/lymphocytes ratio (NLR inflammation score) per Log₁₀ higher [HR: 1.319, 95% CI 1.047–1.662, p = 0.0188].

Conclusions

Intravenous drug users with high HIV RNA, high Fib-4 levels and more heavily exposed to antiretroviral drugs appeared to be more at risk of clinical events. Interestingly, high levels of inflammation measured through NLR, were also associated with clinical events. So, these patients should be monitored more strictly.