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Persistent pneumocystis colonization leads to the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a nonhuman

Timothy W Shipley1, Heather M Kling, Alison Morris

  • 1Department of Immunology, Division of Pulmonary, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA.

The Journal of Infectious Diseases
|June 11, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Pneumocystis colonization in simian/human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV)-infected monkeys caused progressive obstructive lung disease, suggesting Pneumocystis may be a risk factor for HIV-associated chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Area of Science:

  • Pulmonary Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals face heightened risks for pulmonary issues like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
  • Subclinical infections and persistent Pneumocystis colonization are implicated in HIV-associated COPD, but causal links remain unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the pulmonary effects of Pneumocystis colonization in a simian/human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV) model of HIV infection.
  • To explore the potential role of Pneumocystis in the development of HIV-associated lung disease and COPD.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized a SHIV infection model in monkeys, with some subjects colonized by Pneumocystis.
  • Monitored pulmonary function, emphysematous changes, bronchial-associated lymphoid tissue, and inflammatory mediators in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid.

Main Results:

  • SHIV-infected and Pneumocystis-colonized monkeys exhibited progressive obstructive pulmonary disease, marked by emphysema and increased lymphoid tissue.
  • Elevated T helper type 2 cytokines and proinflammatory mediators correlated with Pneumocystis colonization and decreased lung function.

Conclusions:

  • Findings support the role of infectious agents in HIV-associated lung disease development.
  • Pneumocystis colonization may be a significant risk factor for HIV-associated COPD.
  • The SHIV model offers a platform for studying early host responses and identifying therapeutic targets for COPD.

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