Effects of Growth Hormone on HIV-1 Immune Responses
Author Information
Author(s): Ana A. Herasimtschuk, Samantha J. Westrop, Graeme J. Moyle, Jocelyn S. Downey, Nesrina Imami
Primary Institution: Imperial College London
Hypothesis
Can recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) improve HIV-1-specific T-cell responses in patients on HAART?
Conclusion
Daily dosing of rhGH may help restore T-cell function in HIV-1 patients, but the benefits decline with less frequent dosing.
Supporting Evidence
- Significant increases in HIV-1-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell responses were observed after 12 weeks of rhGH therapy.
- CD4+ T-cell responses declined with less frequent dosing of rhGH.
- Proviral DNA levels remained stable in most patients throughout the study.
Takeaway
This study shows that giving growth hormone can help the immune system of people with HIV, but the effects don't last if the treatment stops.
Methodology
A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study assessing T-cell responses and proviral DNA in HIV-1 patients receiving rhGH.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and the effects of rhGH were not maintained after treatment cessation.
Participant Demographics
Twelve HIV-1 infected individuals with lipodystrophy, mean age 43.4 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.0059 (various T-cell responses)
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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