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HIV-Specific Immune Dysregulation and Atherosclerosis

  • Metabolic Complications and Comorbidity (JM Kilby, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

HIV + patients face a heightened risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), which cannot be fully explained by traditional risk factors or antiretroviral therapy (ART)-related cardiotoxicity. Increasing evidence suggests a significant contribution of HIV-specific immune dysregulation to atherosclerosis. HIV-specific immune dysregulation may have the following atherogenic effects: 1) activation of endothelial and immune cells; 2) enhancement of the percentage of circulating atherogenic immune cell subsets; and 3) modification of lipid function. Efforts are underway to link immune dysregulation markers with validated CVD endpoints and to identify genetic predispositions for HIV-induced atherogenesis. Moreover, immune suppressants are under evaluation in HIV + patients to attempt modification of immune-mediated CVD risk. Taken together, these studies will enhance understanding of CVD risk stratification and reduction strategies in HIV.

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M. V. Zanni: none; S. K. Grinspoon: consultant to Theratechnologies and Serono.

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  1. Endocrine Division, Program in Nutritional Metabolism, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St 5LON 207, Boston, MA, 02114, USA

    Markella V. Zanni & Steven K. Grinspoon

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  1. Markella V. Zanni
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Correspondence to Markella V. Zanni.

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Zanni, M.V., Grinspoon, S.K. HIV-Specific Immune Dysregulation and Atherosclerosis. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 9, 200–205 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11904-012-0123-y

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