L-cycloserine, an inhibitor of sphingolipid biosynthesis, inhibits HIV-1 cytopathic effects, replication, and infectivity
Article Abstract:
L-cycloserine (L-CS) appears to inhibit HIV reproduction and infectivity. L-CS inhibits the synthesis of chemicals called sphingolipids, which are normal components of cell membranes. L-CS affects the CD4 receptor on T cells, which is the receptor that HIV attaches to. Researchers added L-CS in different concentrations to a CD4 T cell line before and after adding HIV to the cell line. L-CS was not directly toxic to the cells before the introduction of HIV. After infecting the cells with HIV, a 5 microgram per milliliter dose of L-CS reduced the number of HIV-infected cells by 88% and also reduced the levels of p24 core protein, which is produced when the virus reproduces. It also completely inhibited the formation of syncytia, which occurs when infected cells clump together. Lower doses of L-CS had no effect on HIV infectivity. Animal studies have shown that the high dose of L-CS is not toxic. L-CS could be an alternative treatment for HIV infection.
Publication Name: Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes and Human Retrovirology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 1077-9450
Year: 1996
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Epidemiologic evidence for time variation in HIV infectivity
Article Abstract:
It is possible that HIV-infected people are most likely to transmit the virus to others during the first few years of the infection. Analysis of the transmission of HIV from one person in a monogamous relationship to their partner reveals that infectivity is highest following the initial infection and drops between two and 10 years after infection. More research is needed to confirm these results.
Publication Name: Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes and Human Retrovirology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 1077-9450
Year: 1998
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Effect of intravaginal practices on the vaginal and cervical mucosa of Zimbabwean women
Article Abstract:
Certain intravaginal practices used by some prostitutes in Zimbabwe do not appear to injure the vaginal mucosa and thereby increase the risk of HIV infection. These practices include inserting objects into the vagina, douching, using substances to tighten the vagina, or engaging in dry sex.
Publication Name: Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes (1999)
Subject: Health
ISSN: 1525-4135
Year: 2000
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