Hitting HIV where it hides
2008
Targeting HIV in Macrophages
Commentary
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Dayton Andrew I
Primary Institution: Laboratory of Molecular Virology, Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, OBRR/CBER/FDA
Hypothesis
Can inhibitors of the PI3/Akt pathway help in targeting HIV reservoirs in macrophages?
Conclusion
Inhibitors of the PI3K/Akt pathway can make HIV-infected macrophages more susceptible to cell death, suggesting a new therapeutic strategy.
Supporting Evidence
- HIV-infected macrophages are long-lived and resistant to many antiretroviral drugs.
- PI3K/Akt inhibitors can sensitize HIV-infected macrophages to oxidative stress-induced cell death.
- The HIV Tat protein activates the PI3K/Akt pathway, providing a protective effect against cell death.
Takeaway
Scientists found a way to make HIV-infected cells die by using special drugs that target a specific pathway in those cells.
Limitations
The study lacks evidence that natural levels of reactive oxygen species in HIV-infected macrophages are sufficient to induce cell death.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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