Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 5, 2026

Peptide-based Identification of Functional Motifs and their Binding Partners
Published on: June 30, 2013
Determinants of endothelial function in human immunodeficiency virus infection: a complex interplay among therapy,
1Infectious Diseases Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA. kmondy@im.wustl.edu
Insights
Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can lead to metabolic issues and increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Understanding these complex mechanisms is key for managing long-term HIV care.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Infectious Disease
- Metabolic Syndrome
Background:
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is now a chronic condition due to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).
- HIV-infected individuals face increased risks of metabolic complications and cardiovascular disease (CVD).
- Previous studies indicate higher premature CVD risk in HIV patients compared to the general population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the multifactorial mechanisms regulating endothelial function in HIV-infected individuals.
- To identify factors contributing to cardiovascular disease risk in the context of HIV and HAART.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiologic and clinical studies on HIV, HAART, and cardiovascular health.
- Analysis of factors affecting endothelial function in HIV cohorts.
Main Results:
- HIV infection and HAART are associated with metabolic complications like insulin resistance and dyslipidemia.
- Endothelial dysfunction is common in HIV-infected populations.
- Multiple factors, including direct viral effects, lipid changes, inflammation, HAART, and host factors, influence endothelial function.
Conclusions:
- Endothelial dysfunction in HIV is complex and influenced by viral, treatment, and host-related factors.
- Improved understanding of these mechanisms is crucial for effective long-term HIV management.
- Strategies to mitigate CVD risk in HIV patients require further development.
Abstract:
In the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has become a chronic disease in which patients may develop significant metabolic complications and risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD), including insulin resistance, visceral fat deposition, and increases in atherogenic cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Epidemiologic studies have found that persons infected with HIV are likely to be at higher risk for premature CVD compared with the general population, and clinical studies examining endothelial function in HIV-infected cohorts have supported such conclusions. The mechanisms underlying the regulation of endothelial function in HIV-infected persons appear to be multifactorial, including direct effects of HIV on the endothelium, indirect effects of HIV on lipids and inflammatory cytokines, HAART-related effects, and traditional/host factors. Better understanding of these processes can lead to improved strategies for the long-term management of HIV infection.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Immunodeficiency Diseases
There are three main causes of immunodeficiency disorders...
Inhibitors of Virion Maturation and Assembly
Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin create...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis I
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Retrovirus Life Cycles

