Adipose Tissue in HIV Infection.

Area of Science:

• Adipose tissue biology
• Immunology
• Virology

Background:

• HIV infection and ART significantly affect adipose tissue quantity, distribution, and energy storage.
• HIV-associated lipodystrophy involves altered adipose tissue morphology and gene expression.
• HIV viral proteins and ART drugs can impair adipocyte maturation and function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize current literature on how HIV, ART, and host factors influence adipose tissue.
• To examine the effects on adipose tissue distribution, immunology, and metabolic health.
• To review impacts on adipocyte maturation, cellular regulation, and energy storage.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis.
• Analysis of gene expression and cellular morphology changes in adipocytes.
• Examination of immunological alterations in adipose tissue.

Main Results:

• HIV and ART alter adipose tissue morphology, gene expression (e.g., PPAR-γ), and cytokine signaling.
• Early ART drugs exhibited significant adipocyte toxicity; newer agents appear safer.
• HIV infection affects T cell balance and macrophage activation in adipose tissue, potentially creating a viral reservoir.

Conclusions:

• HIV and ART profoundly impact adipose tissue, influencing metabolic health and body composition.
• Understanding these interactions is crucial for managing HIV patients.
• Adipose tissue serves as a site for viral persistence and immune modulation in HIV infection.