Osteopontin as a potential mediator of inflammation in HIV and comorbid conditions

Approximately 39 million people live with HIV globally, with 1.3 million new infections annually. Despite improved treatment, noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular disease (CVD), neurological disorders, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and cancer are now the leading causes of death among people with HIV (PWH). Osteopontin (OPN) has emerged as a notable mediator in the inflammatory response to HIV and related NCDs. Our aim is to review the current understanding of OPN's role in HIV-related inflammatory pathways to highlight potential therapeutic avenues for improved treatment and mitigation of comorbidities.

We conducted a systematic review by searching relevant literature using specific keywords related to HIV, osteopontin, cardiovascular disease, inflammation, neurological disorders, cancer, and chronic kidney disease. The collected studies were organized and categorized by key themes, followed by a comprehensive analysis to identify patterns and draw conclusions regarding OPN's role in HIV-associated comorbidities.

The intricate interactions between OPN, its isoforms, and HIV-related illnesses suggest that OPN can exhibit both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory roles, depending on the stage of the disease and the specific cell type involved. Its functions are diverse throughout the progression of HIV and its associated comorbidities, including CVD, CKD, cancer, and neurological disorders.

OPN's effects on the disease progression of HIV and related NCDs are highly variable due to its diverse functions. Therefore, further research is essential to fully understand its complex roles before considering OPN as a therapeutic target for HIV and its comorbidities.