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Updated: Jan 28, 2026

Amplifying and Quantifying HIV-1 RNA in HIV Infected Individuals with Viral Loads Below the Limit of Detection by Standard Clinical Assays
Published on: September 26, 2011
HIV-associated neurodegeneration: exploitation of the neuronal cytoskeleton
Erin D Wenzel1, Valeria Avdoshina2, Italo Mocchetti3,4
1Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3970 Reservoir Rd NW, Washington, DC, 20057, USA.
Abstract:
Human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV) infection of the central nervous system damages synapses and promotes axonal injury, ultimately resulting in HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND). The mechanisms through which HIV causes damage to neurons are still under investigation. The cytoskeleton and associated proteins are fundamental for axonal and dendritic integrity. In this article, we review evidence that HIV proteins, such as the envelope protein gp120 and transactivator of transcription (Tat), impair the structure and function of the neuronal cytoskeleton. Investigation into the effects of viral proteins on the neuronal cytoskeleton may provide a better understanding of HIV neurotoxicity and suggest new avenues for additional therapies.
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