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Published in: Journal of NeuroVirology 5/2020

01-10-2020 | Human Immunodeficiency Virus | Review

A review of the potential mechanisms of neuronal toxicity associated with antiretroviral drugs

Authors: Ilaria De Benedetto, Mattia Trunfio, Giulia Guastamacchia, Stefano Bonora, Andrea Calcagno

Published in: Journal of NeuroVirology | Issue 5/2020

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Abstract

Highly active antiretroviral treatment has led to unprecedented efficacy and tolerability in people living with HIV. This effect was also observed in the central nervous system with the nowadays uncommon observation of dementias; yet in more recent works milder forms are still reported in 20–30% of optimally treated individuals. The idea of a subclinical neuronal toxicity induced by antiretrovirals has been proposed and was somehow supported by the late-emerging effects associated with efavirenz use. In this manuscript we are reviewing all the potential mechanisms by which antiretroviral drugs have been associated with in vitro, ex vivo, or in vivo toxicity to cells pertaining to the central nervous system (neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and endothelial cells). These include direct or indirect effects and pathological pathways such as amyloid deposition, damage to small cerebral vessels, and impairment in neurotransmission. The aim of this review is therefore to provide a detailed description of the available literature in order to guide further clinical research for improving patients’ neurocognition and quality of life.
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Metadata
Title
A review of the potential mechanisms of neuronal toxicity associated with antiretroviral drugs
Authors
Ilaria De Benedetto
Mattia Trunfio
Giulia Guastamacchia
Stefano Bonora
Andrea Calcagno
Publication date
01-10-2020
Publisher
Springer International Publishing
Published in
Journal of NeuroVirology / Issue 5/2020
Print ISSN: 1355-0284
Electronic ISSN: 1538-2443
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s13365-020-00874-9

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