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Effects of Antiretroviral Therapy in the Central Nervous System: Beyond Viral Suppression

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Abstract

Persistence of cognitive, behavioral and, to a lesser extent, motor dysfunction in People living with HIV (PLWH) despite viral suppression has raised the question about the potential contribution of antiretroviral (ARV) compounds themselves. Converging clinical and experimental evidence support a contribution of ARV compounds. In this issue we explore the existing clinical evidence on the impact of antiretroviral therapy (ART) on the CNS across the age continuum and in women. We further examine cell type specific effects of ARV drugs as well as the class specific effects. Finally, underlying mechanisms for the observed clinical and experimental ARV-induced effects are discussed. To improve the quality of life for PLWH who are dependent on life-long ART for viral suppression, it is critical to minimize ARV-induced cellular and tissue dysfunction in the CNS.

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Funding

National Institutes of Health: R01 MH109382, R01 MH106967, R01 MH098742, R01 DA049514, R21 MH118121, R21 NS107594

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Basic and Translational Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 240 S. 40th St, Rm 312 Levy Bldg, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-6030, USA

    Kelly L. Jordan-Sciutto

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  1. Kelly L. Jordan-Sciutto
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This commentary was conceived and written by KJS.

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Correspondence to Kelly L. Jordan-Sciutto.

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Jordan-Sciutto, K.L. Effects of Antiretroviral Therapy in the Central Nervous System: Beyond Viral Suppression. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 16, 71–73 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11481-021-09987-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11481-021-09987-2

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