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Pollicita M, Schols D, Aquaro S, Peumans WJ, Van Damme EJM, Perno CF, Balzarini J. Carbohydrate-binding agents (CBAs) inhibit HIV-1 infection in human primary monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) and efficiently prevent MDM-directed viral capture and subsequent transmission to CD4+ T lymphocytes. Virology 2007; 370:382-91. [PMID: 17928023 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2007.08.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2007] [Revised: 08/20/2007] [Accepted: 08/30/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Carbohydrate-binding agents (CBAs) have been proposed as innovative anti-HIV compounds selectively targeting the glycans of the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein gp120 and preventing DC-SIGN-directed HIV capture by dendritic cells (DCs) and transmission to CD4(+) T-lymphocytes. We now show that CBAs efficiently prevent R5 HIV-1 infection of human primary monocyte-derived macrophage (MDM) cell cultures in the nanomolar range. Both R5 and X4 HIV-1 strains were efficiently captured by the macrophage mannose-binding receptor (MMR) present on MDM. HIV-1 capture by MMR-expressing MDM was inhibited by soluble mannose-binding lectin and MMR antibody. Short pre-exposure of these HIV-1 strains to CBAs is able to prevent virus capture by MDM and subsequent syncytia formation in cocultures of the CBA-exposed HIV-1-captured MDM and uninfected CD4(+) T-lymphocytes. The potential of CBAs to impair MDM in their capacity to capture and to transmit HIV to T-lymphocytes might be an important property to be taken into consideration in the eventual choice to select microbicide candidate drugs for clinical investigation.
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Cervasi B, Paiardini M, Serafini S, Fraternale A, Menotta M, Engram J, Lawson B, Staprans SI, Piedimonte G, Perno CF, Silvestri G, Magnani M. Administration of fludarabine-loaded autologous red blood cells in simian immunodeficiency virus-infected sooty mangabeys depletes pSTAT-1-expressing macrophages and delays the rebound of viremia after suspension of antiretroviral therapy. J Virol 2006; 80:10335-45. [PMID: 17041214 PMCID: PMC1641773 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00472-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A major limitation of highly active antiretroviral therapy is that it fails to eradicate human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection due to its limited effects on viral reservoirs carrying replication-competent HIV, including monocytes/macrophages (M/M). Therefore, therapeutic approaches aimed at targeting HIV-infected M/M may prove useful in the clinical management of HIV-infected patients. In previous studies, we have shown that administration of fludarabine-loaded red blood cells (RBC) in vitro selectively induces cell death in HIV-infected M/M via a pSTAT1-dependent pathway. To determine the in vivo efficacy of this novel therapeutic strategy, we treated six naturally simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV)-infected sooty mangabeys (SMs) with either 9-[2-(R)-(phosphonomethoxy)propyl]adenine (PMPA) only, fludarabine-loaded RBC only, or PMPA in association with fludarabine-loaded RBC. The rationale of this treatment was to target infected M/M with fludarabine-loaded RBC at a time when PMPA is suppressing viral replication taking place in activated CD4+ T cells. In vivo administration of fludarabine-loaded RBC was well tolerated and did not induce any discernible side effect. Importantly, addition of fludarabine-loaded RBC to PMPA delayed the rebound of viral replication after suspension of therapy, thus suggesting a reduction in the size of SIV reservoirs. While administrations of fludarabine-loaded RBC did not induce any change in the CD4+ or CD8+ T-cell compartments, we observed, in chronically SIV-infected SMs, a selective depletion of M/M expressing pSTAT1. This study suggests that therapeutic strategies based on the administration of fludarabine-loaded RBC may be further explored as interventions aimed at reducing the size of the M/M reservoirs during chronic HIV infection.
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Rezza G, Valdarchi C, Puzelli S, Ciotti M, Farchi F, Fabiani C, Calzoletti L, Donatelli I, Perno CF. Respiratory viruses and influenza-like illness: a survey in the area of Rome, winter 2004-2005. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 11:9-10. [PMID: 29208116 DOI: 10.2807/esm.11.10.00652-en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Limited information is available on the viral aetiology of influenza-like illness (ILI) in Southern European countries. Hereby we report the main findings of a survey conducted in the area of Rome during the 2004-2005 winter season. ILI cases were defined as individuals with fever >37.5°C and at least one constitutional symptom and one respiratory symptom, recruited during the survey period. Influenza and other respiratory viruses were identified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on throat swabs. Basic individual information was collected through a standard form. Of 173 ILI cases enrolled, 74 tested positive for one virus, and two tested positive for two viruses. Overall, 33.5% of the cases were positive for influenza viruses, 5.2% for adenoviruses, 3.5% for parainfluenza viruses, 1.7% for coronaviruses, and 1.2% for the respiratory syncitial virus. The proportion of influenza virus detection was higher in the 'high influenza activity' period. The distribution of viral agents varied across age groups, influenza viruses being more likely to be detected in younger patients. Viral pathogens were identified in less than 50% of ILI cases occurred during a high activity influenza season. The detection of other than influenza viruses was sporadic, without evidence of large outbreaks due to specific agents.
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Marazzi MC, Germano P, Liotta G, Guidotti G, Loureiro S, da Cruz Gomes A, Valls Blazquez MC, Narciso P, Perno CF, Mancinelli S, Palombi L. Safety of nevirapine-containing antiretroviral triple therapy regimens to prevent vertical transmission in an African cohort of HIV-1-infected pregnant women. HIV Med 2006; 7:338-44. [PMID: 16945080 DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-1293.2006.00386.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the incidence and consequences of adverse reactions among African HIV-positive pregnant women treated with fixed-dose combinations of a nevirapine-containing antiretroviral (ARV) triple therapy. METHODS A retrospective analysis of the clinical files of 703 HIV-1-positive pregnant women treated with a nevirapine-containing regimen between May 2002 and July 2004 was conducted. Selection criteria for inclusion in the analysis were: (a) taking ARV for more than 14 days; (b) baseline values of transaminases below the threshold of 2.5 times the upper limit of normal (ULN). The women were on a nevirapine-containing regimen for a median of 127 days [interquartile range (IQR) 86-190 days], starting on average at the 27th week of gestation (standard deviation+/-9.5) and continuing up to a maximum of 6 months after delivery. All women were offered formula milk to feed the babies. Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) was continued beyond 6 months only if the patient qualified on the first visit. The main outcome measures were incidence of hepatotoxicity, skin rashes and Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Multivariate analysis to assess the impact of several factors on the adverse reaction rate was performed. RESULTS As of 1 August 2004, 554 pregnancies reached term, 96 women were still pregnant, and 53 women dropped out of the programme before giving birth. After 2 months of therapy the percentage of patients with a viral load less than 1000 HIV-1 RNA copies/mL increased to 78.6%; average CD4 cell counts increased from 490 cells/microL before therapy to 630 after therapy. The incidence of grade 3-4 adverse reactions (hepatotoxicity, skin rashes and Stevens-Johnson syndrome) was 6.5, 2.4 and 1.1%, respectively. Five women died during pregnancy (0.88%). Only one of the deaths could be associated with ARV treatment. CONCLUSION Nevirapine-containing regimens in pregnant woman, at all CD4 cell count levels, appear to be safe in African settings.
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Carosi G, Torti C, Andreoni M, Angarano G, Antinori A, Bonora S, Borderi M, Castagna A, Castelli F, Cauda R, Chiodo F, D'arminio-Monforte A, De Luca A, Di Perri G, Dianzani F, Filice G, Galli M, Lazzarin A, Maggiolo F, Maserati R, Mazzotta F, Moroni M, Perno CF, Vullo V. Key questions in antiretroviral therapy: Italian Consensus Workshop (2005). J Antimicrob Chemother 2006; 57:1055-64. [PMID: 16606637 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkl113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A panel of leading Italian specialists in infectious diseases, virologists and immunologists met in Rome in 2005 to review critical data and discuss recommendations for each of the key questions in antiretroviral therapy today: When to start treatment? How to start? When to switch? What to switch to? Whether to stop or not to stop treatment, and how? The method of a nominal group meeting was used and recommendations were graded for their strength and quality using a system based on the one adopted by the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Main conclusions are summarized and critically discussed in this consensus statement, as well as some of the most recent data supporting these recommendations are provided.
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Marazzi MC, Bartolo M, Emberti Gialloreti L, Germano P, Guidotti G, Liotta G, Magnano San Lio M, Mancinelli S, Modolo MA, Narciso P, Perno CF, Scarcella P, Tintisona G, Palombi L. Improving adherence to highly active anti-retroviral therapy in Africa: the DREAM programme in Mozambique. HEALTH EDUCATION RESEARCH 2006; 21:34-42. [PMID: 15947022 DOI: 10.1093/her/cyh039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Ensuring high levels of adherence to highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART) is a priority in treating people living with AIDS. This study reports the rates of adherence of patients served by DREAM (Drug Resource Enhancement against AIDS and Malnutrition) in the city of Matola, Mozambique. DREAM, an innovative programme tailored for Africa, was implemented by the Community of Sant'Egidio in August 2001. DREAM provides patients with anti-retroviral drugs and laboratory tests at no charge, and is based on a particular strategy of health education and organization of services designed for a population that is predominantly poor and has a low level of formal education. This study analyzes the adherence of 154 patients over a period of 6 months. In evaluating adherence, two indicators were used: (1) the percentage of appointments kept for check-ups, tests and the collection of medicine, and (2) the overall change in the patients' blood chemistry over the 6-month period. Of the 154 patients, 127 (82.5%) kept more than 90% of their appointments. Adherence to the programme was further confirmed by a relevant increase of hemoglobin levels and CD4 counts, and a significant decrease in the viral loads among the 154 patients.
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Rezza G, Valdarchi C, Puzelli S, Ciotti M, Farchi F, Fabiani C, Calzoletti L, Donatelli I, Perno CF. Respiratory viruses and influenza-like illness: a survey in the area of Rome, winter 2004-2005. Euro Surveill 2006; 11:251-3. [PMID: 17130656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Limited information is available on the viral aetiology of influenza-like illness (ILI) in Southern European countries. Hereby we report the main findings of a survey conducted in the area of Rome during the 2004-2005 winter season.ILI cases were defined as individuals with fever >37.5 degrees C and at least one constitutional symptom and one respiratory symptom, recruited during the survey period. Influenza and other respiratory viruses were identified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on throat swabs. Basic individual information was collected through a standard form. Of 173 ILI cases enrolled, 74 tested positive for one virus, and two tested positive for two viruses. Overall, 33.5% of the cases were positive for influenza viruses, 5.2% for adenoviruses, 3.5% for parainfluenza viruses, 1.7% for coronaviruses, and 1.2% for the respiratory syncitial virus. The proportion of influenza virus detection was higher in the 'high influenza activity' period. The distribution of viral agents varied across age groups, influenza viruses being more likely to be detected in younger patients. Viral pathogens were identified in less than 50% of ILI cases occurred during a high activity influenza season. The detection of other than influenza viruses was sporadic, without evidence of large outbreaks due to specific agents.
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Zaccarelli M, Tozzi V, Lorenzini P, Trotta MP, Forbici F, Visco-Comandini U, Gori C, Narciso P, Perno CF, Antinori A. Multiple drug class-wide resistance associated with poorer survival after treatment failure in a cohort of HIV-infected patients. AIDS 2005; 19:1081-9. [PMID: 15958840 DOI: 10.1097/01.aids.0000174455.01369.ad] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect of drug class-wide resistance (CWR) on survival in HIV-infected individuals who underwent genotypic resistance test after antiretroviral failure. DESIGN Observational, longitudinal cohort study. METHODS HIV-infected individuals experiencing treatment failure were enrolled at first genotypic resistance test. End-points were death for any cause, AIDS-related death and AIDS-defining event/death. CWR was defined according to the International AIDS Society consensus. Survival analysis was performed with Cox's model. RESULTS Among 623 patients enrolled and followed for a median of 19 months (interquartile range, 12-29), Kaplan-Meier analyses for end-points at 48 months in patients with no CWR, one CWR, two CWR or three CWR were 8.9, 11.7, 13.4 and 27.1%, respectively, for death; 6.1, 9.9, 13.4 and 21.5%, respectively, for AIDS-related death; and 16.0, 17.7, 19.3 and 35.9%, respectively, for new AIDS event/death. In a multivariate Cox's model, higher HIV RNA level, previous AIDS and detection of three CWR (hazard ratio, 5.34; 95% confidence interval, 1.76-16.24) were all significantly associated with increased risk of death, while higher CD4 cell count and use of a new boosted protease inhibitor drug after identifying genotypic resistance were associated with reduced risk. Detection of three CWR was also significantly associated with higher risk of AIDS-related death and new AIDS event/death. CONCLUSIONS Even in the late era of highly effective antiretroviral treatments, detection of CWR, particularly if extended to all three drug classes is related to poorer clinical outcome and represents a risk-marker of disease progression and death.
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Vandamme AM, Sönnerborg A, Ait-Khaled M, Albert J, Asjo B, Bacheler L, Banhegyi D, Boucher C, Brun-Vézinet F, Camacho R, Clevenbergh P, Clumeck N, Dedes N, De Luca A, Doerr HW, Faudon JL, Gatti G, Gerstoft J, Hall WW, Hatzakis A, Hellmann N, Horban A, Lundgren JD, Kempf D, Miller M, Miller V, Myers TW, Nielsen C, Opravil M, Palmisano L, Perno CF, Phillips A, Pillay D, Pumarola T, Ruiz L, Salminen M, Schapiro J, Schmidt B, Schmit JC, Schuurman R, Shulse E, Soriano V, Staszewski S, Vella S, Youle M, Ziermann R, Perrin L. Updated European recommendations for the clinical use of HIV drug resistance testing. Antivir Ther 2004; 9:829-48. [PMID: 15651743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
In most European countries, HIV drug resistance testing has become a routine clinical tool. However, its practical implementation in a clinical context is demanding. The European HIV Drug Resistance Panel was established to make recommendations to clinicians and virologists on this topic and to propose quality control measures. The panel recommends resistance testing for the following indications: i) drug-naive patients with acute or recent infection; ii) therapy failure, including suboptimal treatment response, when treatment change is considered; iii) pregnant HIV-1-infected women and paediatric patients with detectable viral load when treatment initiation or change is considered; and iv) genotype source patient when post-exposure prophylaxis is considered. In addition, for drug-naive patients with chronic infection in whom treatment is to be started, the panel suggests that resistance testing should be strongly considered and recommends testing the earliest sample for drug resistance if suspicion of resistance is high or prevalence of resistance in this population exceeds 10%. The panel does not favour genotyping over phenotype, however it is anticipated that genotyping will be used more often because of its greater accessibility, lower cost and faster turnaround time. For the interpretation of resistance data, clinically validated systems should be used to the greatest extent possible. It is mandatory that laboratories performing HIV resistance tests take regular part in quality assurance programs. Similarly, it is necessary that HIV clinicians and virologists take part in continuous education and meet regularly to discuss problematic clinical cases. Indeed, resistance test results should be used in the context of all other clinically relevant information for predicting therapy response. The panel also encourages the timely collection of epidemiological information to estimate the impact of transmission of resistant HIV and the prevalence of HIV-1 non-B subtypes in the different European countries.
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Vandamme AM, Sönnerborg A, Ait-Khaled M, Albert J, Asjo B, Bacheler L, Banhegyi D, Boucher C, Brun-Vézinet F, Camacho R, Clevenbergh P, Clumeck N, Dedes N, Luca AD, Doerr HW, Faudon JL, Gatti G, Gerstoft J, Hall WW, Hatzakis A, Hellmann N, Horban A, Lundgren JD, Kempf D, Miller M, Miller V, Myers TW, Nielsen C, Opravil M, Palmisano L, Perno CF, Phillips A, Pillay D, Pumarola T, Ruiz L, Salminen M, Schapiro J, Schmidt B, Schmit JC, Schuurman R, Shulse E, Soriano V, Staszewski S, Vella S, Youle M, Ziermann R, Perrin L. Updated European Recommendations for the Clinical Use of HIV Drug Resistance Testing. Antivir Ther 2004. [DOI: 10.1177/135965350400900619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In most European countries, HIV drug resistance testing has become a routine clinical tool. However, its practical implementation in a clinical context is demanding. The European HIV Drug Resistance Panel was established to make recommendations to clinicians and virologists on this topic and to propose quality control measures. The panel recommends resistance testing for the following indications: i) drug-naive patients with acute or recent infection; ii) therapy failure, including suboptimal treatment response, when treatment change is considered; iii) pregnant HIV-1-infected women and paediatric patients with detectable viral load when treatment initiation or change is considered; and iv) genotype source patient when post-exposure prophylaxis is considered. In addition, for drug-naive patients with chronic infection in whom treatment is to be started, the panel suggests that resistance testing should be strongly considered and recommends testing the earliest sample for drug resistance if suspicion of resistance is high or prevalence of resistance in this population exceeds 10%. The panel does not favour genotyping over phenotype, however it is anticipated that genotyping will be used more often because of its greater accessibility, lower cost and faster turnaround time. For the interpretation of resistance data, clinically validated systems should be used to the greatest extent possible. It is mandatory that laboratories performing HIV resistance tests take regular part in quality assurance programs. Similarly, it is necessary that HIV clinicians and virologists take part in continuous education and meet regularly to discuss problematic clinical cases. Indeed, resistance test results should be used in the context of all other clinically relevant information for predicting therapy response. The panel also encourages the timely collection of epidemiological information to estimate the impact of transmission of resistant HIV and the prevalence of HIV-1 non-B subtypes in the different European countries.
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Luca AD, Cozzi-Lepri A, Perno CF, Balotta C, Giambenedetto SD, Poggio A, Pagano G, Tositti G, Piscopo R, Forno AD, Chiodo F, Magnani G, Monforte AD, Angarano G, Antinori A, Balotta C, Cozzi-Lepri A, Monforte AD, De Luca A, Monno L, Perno CF, Rusconi S, Montroni M, Scalise G, Zoli A, Del Prete MS, Tirelli U, Di Gennaro G, Pastore G, Ladisa N, Minafra G, Suter F, Arici C, Chiodo F, Colangeli V, Fiorini C, Coronado O, Carosi G, Cadeo GP, Castelli F, Minardi C, Vangi D, Rizzardini G, Migliorino G, Manconi PE, Piano P, Ferraro T, Scerbo A, Pizzigallo E, D'Alessandro M, Santoro D, Pusterla L, Carnevale G, Galloni D, Viganò P, Mena M, Ghinelli F, Sighinolfi L, Leoncini F, Mazzotta F, Pozzi M, Caputo SL, Angarano G, Grisorio B, Ferrara S, Grima P, Tundo P, Pagano G, Piersantelli N, Alessandrini A, Piscopo R, Toti M, Chigiotti S, Soscia F, Tacconi L, Orani A, Perini P, Scasso A, Vincenti A, Chiodera F, Castelli P, Scalzini A, Fibbia G, Moroni M, Lazzarin A, Cargnel A, Vigevani GM, Caggese L, d'Arminio Monforte A, Repetto D, Novati R, Galli A, Merli S, Pastecchia C, Moioli MC, Esposito R, Mussini C, Abrescia N, Chirianni A, Izzo C, Piazza M, De Marco M, Montesarchio V, Manzillo E, Graf M, Colomba A, Abbadessa V, Prestileo T, Mancuso S, Ferrari C, Pizzaferri P, Filice G, Minoli L, Bruno R, Novati S, Balzelli F, Loso K, Petrelli E, Cioppi A, Alberici F, Ruggieri A, Menichetti F, Martinelli C, De Stefano C, Gala AL, Ballardini G, Briganti E, Magnani G, Ursitti MA, Arlotti M, Ortolani P, Cauda R, Dianzani F, Ippolito G, Antinori A, Antonucci G, D'Elia S, Narciso P, Petrosillo N, Vullo V, De Luca A, Di Giambenedetto S, Zaccarelli M, Acinapura R, De Longis P, Ciardi M, D'Offizi G, Trotta MP, Noto P, Lichtner M, Capobianchi MR, Girardi E, Pezzotti P, Rezza G, Mura MS, Mannazzu M, Caramello P, Sinicco A, Soranzo ML, Gennero L, Sciandra M, Bonasso M, Grossi PA, Basilico C, Poggio A, Bottari G, Raise E, Pasquinucci S, De Lalla F, Tositti G, Resta F, Chimienti A, Lepri AC. Variability in the Interpretation of Transmitted Genotypic HIV-1 Drug Resistance and Prediction of Virological Outcomes of the Initial Haart by Distinct Systems. Antivir Ther 2004. [DOI: 10.1177/135965350400900505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
High level HIV-1 drug resistance in recently infected treatment-naive individuals correlates with sub-optimal virological responses to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). To determine whether genotypic HIV-1 drug resistance in chronic naive patients, as interpreted by various systems, could predict the virological outcomes of HAART, isolates from patients enrolled in a prospective observational cohort (ICoNA) prior to treatment start were genotyped. Genotypic susceptibility scores (GSS) assigned to the initial HAART regimens using the interpretations of pre-therapy resistance mutations by 13 systems were related to virological outcomes. Of 415 patients, 42 (10%) had at least one major resistance mutation. According to the different interpretations, 1.9–20.5% of patients had some level of resistance to at least one drug in the initial regimen. In multivariable analysis, GSS from two systems significantly predicted the time to virological success: Rega 5.5, for each unit increase in GSS adjusted relative hazard (RH) 1.86 [95% confidence intervals (95% CI): 1.15–3.02] and hivresistanceWeb v3, RH 1.87 (95% CI: 1.00–3.48). With three other systems, GSS showed a trend towards a significant prediction of success: Retrogram 1.6, RH 2.33 (95% CI: 0.98–5.53), Menéndez 2002, RH 2.36 (95% CI: 0.97–5.72) and Stanford hivdb, RH 2.06 (95% CI: 0.94–4.49). Genotypic resistance testing coupled with adequate interpretation in chronic naive patients can usefully identify those at risk of sub-optimal virological response to HAART.
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Liotta G, Perno CF, Ceffa S, Gialloreti LE, Coehlo E, Erba F, Guidotti G, Marazzi MC, Narciso P, Palombi L. Is total lymphocyte count a reliable predictor of the CD4 lymphocyte cell count in resource-limited settings? AIDS 2004; 18:1082-3. [PMID: 15096818 DOI: 10.1097/00002030-200404300-00023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Santoro M, Ceccherini-Silberstein F, Gori C, Svicher V, Forbici F, Bellocchi MC, d'Arrigo R, Bertoli A, Giannella S, Trotta MP, Bonfigli S, Antinori A, Perno CF. Temporal change in the use of genotypic resistance testing over the years 1999--2003. THE NEW MICROBIOLOGICA 2004; 27:141-4. [PMID: 15646078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
The evaluation of resistance test perception by clinicians over the years 1999--2003 was assessed in an Italian cohort. The results on 2233 samples from 1416 HIV-1 infected patients show an increase in HIV-1 drug resistance test requests over time, with a plateau reached in the last three years. CD4-cell count at the time of genotype request progressively increased. In particular, the median CD4 cell count of drug-treated patients increased from 221x10(6) cells/l [interquartile range (IQR): 109-368] in 1999 to 296x10(6) cells/l (IQR: 166-478) in 2003 (p<0.0001). At the same time, plasma HIV-RNA level progressively decreased from a median of 103,500 copies/ml (IQR: 37,250-260,000) in 1999 to 9,444 copies/ml (IQR: 2,086-41,281) in 2003 (p<0.0001). Overall, data suggest that the genotype test is increasingly considered, and requested also for patients at earlier stages of drug history and/or at less severe disease stage.
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Balestra E, Aquaro S, Perno CF. HIV/HCV co-infection: the magnitude of the problem. J BIOL REG HOMEOS AG 2003; 17:138-43. [PMID: 14518712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) share routes of transmission, therefore their coinfection is relatively common. Nevertheless, the clinical relevance of this event has been minimal until few years ago when, due to the increased survival of HIV-infected individuals (favoured by highly active antiretroviral therapy) morbility and mortality caused by pathologies not strictly related to HIV (such as HCV infection) raised sharply. Despite differences in their general characteristics (including lifecycle, target cells, and type of persistence in the infected host) a remarkable level of interaction exists between HCV and HIV; this makes the progression of both liver disease and immunological damage easier and more rapid. A therapeutic approach to HIV/HCV coinfection thus requires the utilization of drugs and strategies effective against both viruses, yet, timing, drug types, and effective combinations still remain poorly defined. New and innovative studies specifically focused on HIV/HCV coinfection are thus warranted to increase the knowledge about their interaction, and define therapeutic strategies aimed to the best management of the infection by both viruses during coinfection.
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Antinori A, Zaccarelli M, Cingolani A, Forbici F, Rizzo MG, Trotta MP, Di Giambenedetto S, Narciso P, Ammassari A, Girardi E, De Luca A, Perno CF. Cross-resistance among nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors limits recycling efavirenz after nevirapine failure. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2002; 18:835-8. [PMID: 12201905 DOI: 10.1089/08892220260190308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterogeneity in genotype mutations associated with resistance of HIV to nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) should allow identification of patients failing nevirapine (NVP) who might benefit from efavirenz (EFV)-containing salvage regimens. To establish the feasibility of recycling EFV after failure of NVP-containing regimens genotypic data on 103 NVP-failed patients were analyzed to evaluate the prevalence of EFV resistance-conferring mutations. A clinically significant resistance to EFV was found in 50 of 103 (58%) of NVP-failed subjects. Furthermore, the 3-month virological response to salvage regimens containing EFV was assessed in patients previously treated with NVP and carrying single mutations conferring resistance to this drug. A proportion of HIV RNA less than 500 copies/ml at 3 months was obtained only in 2 of 12 (17%) of EFV-treated subjects compared with 35 of 67 (52%) of those without NNRTI mutations (OR, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.03-0.79). The median HIV-1 RNA decrease after 3 months was -0.63 log(10) among patients carrying single NNRTI-associated mutations compared with -1.32 log(10) among those without any NNRTI mutations. No virological response was observed in six patients harboring a single Y181C/I mutation. On the basis of the present data, sequential use of NNRTIs should be avoided in the management of treatment failure.
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Zaccarelli M, Barracchini A, De Longis P, Perno CF, Soldani F, Liuzzi G, Serraino D, Ippolito G, Antinori A. Factors related to virologic failure among HIV-positive injecting drug users treated with combination antiretroviral therapy including two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors and nevirapine. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2002; 16:67-73. [PMID: 11874638 DOI: 10.1089/10872910252806117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment strategies in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive active injecting drug users (IDUs) must take into account their lifestyles, that often result in low adherence to therapy. The nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTI) offer simpler treatment regimens, but the appearance of drug resistance during treatment failure may cause high levels of cross-resistance to all NNRTIs. We adopted a combination therapy of two NRTIs and nevirapine (NVP) for treatment of IDU patients to evaluate its feasibility in such patients. From October 1998 to December 1999, demographic, clinical, and laboratory data from 80 IDUs on this regimen were collected. Fisher's exact test, Kaplan Meier method, and Cox model were used for statistical analysis. Overall, 20 IDUs discontinued the treatment because of side effects and 20 IDUs experienced treatment failure. Considering the treatment failure as an end point, 55.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 37.9%-72.6%) of patients was still undergoing treatment after 12 months compared to 44.6% (31.8%-58.6%) when discontinuation was also taken into account. An increasing trend over time was observed in the CD4+ lymphocyte count, among failing and nonfailing IDUs. By multivariate analysis, baseline HIV-RNA, treatment breaks and low adherence and active injecting drug use turned out to be significantly associated with treatment failure. Our results show that continuing injecting drug use and treatment breaks are the main factors that can lead to treatment failure in IDUs and easily to NNRTI class resistance.
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Violin M, Forbici F, Cozzi-Lepri A, Velleca R, Bertoli A, Riva C, Giannella S, Manconi PE, Lazzarin A, Pasquinucci S, Tacconi L, Carnevale G, Mazzotta F, Bonazzi L, Montroni M, Chirianni A, Capobianchi M, Ippolito G, Moroni M, Perno CF, D'Arminio-Monforte A. Primary HIV-1 resistance in recently and chronically infected individuals of the Italian Cohort Naive for Antiretrovirals. J BIOL REG HOMEOS AG 2002; 16:37-43. [PMID: 12003172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
The risk of acquiring HIV-1 drug resistance at time of infection has become a public health problem following the widespread use of antiretroviral drugs in developed countries. Although a number of studies have reported data regarding the prevalence of HIV-1 primary resistance in developed countries over the past years, limited knowledge is available regarding the proportion of mutations related to drug resistance in antiretroviral naive subjects with chronic HIV-1 disease. In this study, we evaluated the prevalence of mutations in the reverse-transcriptase (RT) and protease region both in a representative group of recently HIV-1 infected subjects (n=68) and a cohort of chronically-infected HIV-positive patients (n=347) enrolled in the Italian Cohort of Antiretroviral Naive patients (I.CO.NA.). In recently infected individuals, the overall prevalence of mutations for nucleoside RTI (NRTIs) was 10/68 (14.7%). The distribution of mutations by calendar year were 0, 1 in 1996, 9, 3 in 1997 and 1, 0 in 1998 for NRTIs and protease inhibitors (PIs) respectively. Thymidine associated mutations were identified in six subjects (8.8%), five of whom had one mutation [41L, 70K (n=2), 215Y] and one had two mutations (67N+219Q). Four subjects (5.9%) showed the changes associated with resistance to lamivudine (184V or 118I). No non nucleoside-RTI (NNRTI) mutations were present in the study period. Primary PIs mutations (two 46L and two 82I) were present in four subjects (5.9%). Of note, mutations related to resistance to more than one class of antiretrovirals were present in one (1.5%). Among patients with chronic infection a large proportion (88.5%) carried no mutations in RT region, 11.5% individuals carried one or more mutations associated with resistance to NRTI (7.8%), or NNRTI (4.9%), with 4 patients carrying mutations to both classes. Among mutations associated with high-level resistance to RTI, T215Y was found in only 2 patients, M184V in 2 cases, T69D in another case, and K103N in only 1 patient, for a total of 6 patients (one carrying both T215Y and M184V) (1.7%). Primary mutations associated with substantial resistance to PIs were found in only 5/347 patients (1.4%); all the other patients carried only secondary mutations. Prevalence of mutations associated with high-level resistance to antiretroviral drugs is stable in recently infected individuals and low in patients with established HIV infection. The potential impact of transmitted mutations on the response to first regimen in individuals carrying transmitted mutations needs to be assessed by prospective studies.
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68
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Antinori A, Liuzzi G, Cingolani A, Bertoli A, Di Giambenedetto S, Trotta MP, Rizzo MG, Girardi E, De Luca A, Perno CF. Drug-resistant mutants of HIV-1 in patients exhibiting increasing CD4 cell count despite virological failure of highly active antiretroviral therapy. AIDS 2001; 15:2325-7. [PMID: 11698709 DOI: 10.1097/00002030-200111230-00017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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69
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Perno CF, Cozzi-Lepri A, Balotta C, Forbici F, Violin M, Bertoli A, Facchi G, Pezzotti P, Cadeo G, Tositti G, Pasquinucci S, Pauluzzi S, Scalzini A, Salassa B, Vincenti A, Phillips AN, Dianzani F, Appice A, Angarano G, Monno L, Ippolito G, Moroni M, d' Arminio Monforte A. Secondary mutations in the protease region of human immunodeficiency virus and virologic failure in drug-naive patients treated with protease inhibitor-based therapy. J Infect Dis 2001; 184:983-91. [PMID: 11574912 DOI: 10.1086/323604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2001] [Revised: 06/21/2001] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of mutations in protease (PR) and reverse-transcriptase (RT) of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in predicting virologic failure was assessed in 248 antiretroviral-naive HIV-positive patients who began a PR inhibitor-containing antiretroviral regimen. Genotypic testing was performed on plasma samples stored before the start of therapy. Twenty-seven patients (10.9%) had mutations in the RT, 5 (2%) carried primary mutations in the PR, and 131 (52.8%) showed only secondary PR mutations. Virologic failure at week 24 occurred in 62 (25.0%) of 248 patients. There was a statistically significant correlation between virologic failure and the number of PR mutations (P= .04, chi(2) test). Mutations at codons 10 and 36 of PR (present in 39.3% and 40.0% of patients in whom treatment failed, respectively) were identified by stepwise logistic regression as the strongest predictors of virologic failure (odds ratio, 2.20; 95% confidence interval, 1.30-3.75; P= .004). If confirmed in independent studies, this result may justify the increased use of HIV genotyping in drug-naive patients requiring antiretroviral therapy.
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Perno CF, Cozzi-Lepri A, Balotta C, Forbici F, Violin M, Bertoli A, Facchi G, Pezzotti P, Angarano G, Arici C, Narciso P, Orani A, Raise E, Scalzini A, Poggio A, Ippolito G, Moroni M, Monforte AD. Impact of mutations conferring reduced susceptibility to lamivudine on the response to antiretroviral therapy. Antivir Ther 2001; 6:195-8. [PMID: 11808755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
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71
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Balotta C, Facchi G, Violin M, Van Dooren S, Cozzi-Lepri A, Forbici F, Bertoli A, Riva C, Senese D, Caramello P, Carnevale G, Rizzardini G, Cremonini L, Monno L, Rezza G, Perno CF, Ippolito G, d'Arminio-Monforte A, Vandamme AM, Moroni M. Increasing prevalence of non-clade B HIV-1 strains in heterosexual men and women, as monitored by analysis of reverse transcriptase and protease sequences. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2001; 27:499-505. [PMID: 11511828 DOI: 10.1097/00126334-200108150-00012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We evaluated the prevalence of HIV-1 non-clade B over time in a formerly clade B-restricted area. Protease and reverse transcriptase regions of the pol gene were used for phylogenetic and recombination analysis and for clade assignment to HIV-1 A-D, F-H, J, and K strains of the M group. METHODS The pol gene of 349 HIV-1 patients belonging to the Italian Cohort Naive for Antiretrovirals (ICONA) were genotypically analyzed to study the prevalence of antiretroviral-associated resistance mutations. All HIV-1 pol sequences and 32 HIV reference strains were analyzed, including the reference strains for the major HIV-1 subtypes. The non-clade B sequences according to the HIV-1 Subtyping Tool program were further studied by a bootscan analysis (SimPlot) to investigate the likelihood of recombination between subtypes. RESULTS Phylogenetic analysis detected 19 of 349 (5.4%) non-clade B subtypes. The proportions of patients carrying non-clade B virus before and after 1997 were 1.9% and 8.4%, respectively (p =.008). Among whites, heterosexual infection and female gender were significantly associated with the presence of non-clade B subtypes (p =.001 and.005, respectively). Non-clade B HIV-1 was harbored by 14.5% of the heterosexuals who were found to be HIV-1 positive after 1997, 60% of whom were women. Bootscan analysis identified four strains as F, two as A, one as C, one as G, and 11 (57.9 %) as non-clade B recombinant subtypes. CONCLUSION Detection of HIV-1 subtypes and intersubtype recombinants in a previously clade B-homogeneous area indicates that the HIV-1 epidemic is evolving in Italy and that heterosexuals and women are at increased risk of infection with non-clade B HIV-1 subtypes. Sequences inferred from the pol gene yield to establish the subtype of circulating HIV-1 strains. As a consequence, genotyping of pol gene for testing resistance to antiretrovirals warrants concomitant surveillance of non-clade B subtypes.
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Brand G, Schiavano GF, Balestra E, Tavazzi B, Perno CF, Magnani M. The potency of acyclovir can be markedly different in different cell types. Life Sci 2001; 69:1285-90. [PMID: 11521752 DOI: 10.1016/s0024-3205(01)01213-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Acyclovir is an acyclic guanine analog with a considerable activity against herpes simplex viruses. We studied the antiherpetic activity of acyclovir in macrophages and fibroblast cell lines. Utilising a plaque reduction assay we found that acyclovir potently inhibited the HSV-1 replication in macrophages (EC50) = 0.0025 microM) compared to Vero (EC50 = 8.5 microM) and MRC-5 (EC50 = 3.3 microM) cells. The cytotoxicity of acyclovir was not detected at concentrations < or = 20 microM, thus the selective index in macrophages was >8000. This marked difference in antiherpetic activity between macrophages and fibroblasts was not observed with Foscarnet and PMEA. We suggest that this potent antiviral effect of acyclovir is mainly due to a proficient phosphorylation of the drug and/or a favourable dGTP/acyclovir triphosphate ratio in macrophage cells.
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Balzarini J, Camarasa MJ, Pérez-Pérez MJ, San-Félix A, Velázquez S, Perno CF, De Clercq E, Anderson JN, Karlsson A. Exploitation of the low fidelity of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) reverse transcriptase and the nucleotide composition bias in the HIV-1 genome to alter the drug resistance development of HIV. J Virol 2001; 75:5772-7. [PMID: 11390579 PMCID: PMC114293 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.75.13.5772-5777.2001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The RNA genome of the lentivirus human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) is significantly richer in adenine nucleotides than the statistically equal distribution of the four different nucleotides that is expected. This compositional bias may be due to the guanine-to-adenine (G-->A) nucleotide hypermutation of the HIV genome, which has been explained by dCTP pool imbalances during reverse transcription. The adenine nucleotide bias together with the poor fidelity of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase markedly enhances the genetic variation of HIV and may be responsible for the rapid emergence of drug-resistant HIV-1 strains. We have now attempted to counteract the normal mutational pattern of HIV-1 in response to anti-HIV-1 drugs by altering the endogenous deoxynucleoside triphosphate pool ratios with antimetabolites in virus-infected cell cultures. We showed that administration of these antimetabolic compounds resulted in an altered drug resistance pattern due to the reversal of the predominant mutational flow of HIV (G-->A) to an adenine-to-guanine (A-->G) nucleotide pattern in the intact HIV-1-infected lymphocyte cultures. Forcing the virus to change its inherent nucleotide bias may lead to better control of viral drug resistance development.
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Mollace V, Nottet HS, Clayette P, Turco MC, Muscoli C, Salvemini D, Perno CF. Oxidative stress and neuroAIDS: triggers, modulators and novel antioxidants. Trends Neurosci 2001; 24:411-6. [PMID: 11410272 DOI: 10.1016/s0166-2236(00)01819-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Neurological disorders represent one of the most common disturbances accompanying HIV infection. In the past few years, highly antiretroviral active therapy has significantly reduced the incidence of HIV-related diseases. However, neurological dysfunction in AIDS patients still remains an unresolved problem. Oxidative stress, which occurs in brain tissues of patients undergoing HIV infection and is implicated in cell death of both astroglia and neurones, has recently been suggested to play a role in the pathogenesis of neuroAIDS. Thus, a better understanding of the processes that trigger and modulate free radical formation in brain tissues of AIDS patients might help in a successful therapeutic approach to the neuropathogenesis of HIV infection.
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Balestra E, Perno CF, Aquaro S, Panti S, Bertoli A, Piacentini M, Forbici F, D'Arrigo R, Calió R, Garaci E. Macrophages: a crucial reservoir for human immunodeficiency virus in the body. J BIOL REG HOMEOS AG 2001; 15:272-6. [PMID: 11693436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
The replication of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in cells of macrophage lineage represents a key pathogenetic event of the neurological damages typically found during the course of this disease. Macrophages are persistently infected cells and thus not susceptible to the cytophatic effect typical of infected activated CD4-lymphocytes. The resistance of macrophages to HIV infection is at least in part mediated by the autocrine production of the nerve growth factor (NGF), a neurokine able to sustain the survival of some cells of bone marrow origin, including monocyte-derived macrophages. This anti-apoptotic effect of NGF in HIV-infected macrophages can be even more relevant at the central nervous system level, where many cells are able to physiologically produce NGF, thus further increasing the survival of macrophages infected by HIV, and enhancing the damages that these cells may induce upon bystander neurons. The proapoptotic effect of soluble factors released by HIV-infected macrophages may heavily affect the survival and functions also of astrocytes, that in turn become unable to sustain neuronal homeostasis. Taken together, this information supports the importance of therapeutic attempts aimed at attacking virus replication in infected macrophages and/or to selectively eliminate these chronically infected and persistently virus-producing cells.
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