In vitro inactivation of human immunodeficiency virus by ascorbic acid

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Biochemistry
• Blood Product Safety

Background:

• Cell-free human immunodeficiency virus (CFHIV) poses a risk in transfusion medicine.
• Investigating novel inactivation methods for CFHIV is crucial for blood safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the in vitro efficacy of ascorbic acid (AA) in inactivating CFHIV.
• To assess the impact of AA on platelet function in stored platelet concentrates.

Main Methods:

• CFHIV was incubated with varying concentrations of AA in RPMI, whole blood (WB), and leukocyte-depleted blood (LDB).
• Inactivation was assessed by co-culturing with MT2 cells and monitoring for syncytia formation, cell viability, p24 antigen, and HIV DNA.
• Platelet function tests were performed on AA-treated platelet concentrates.

Main Results:

• 500 micrograms/ml of AA completely inactivated CFHIV in RPMI, WB, and LDB.
• No adverse effects on platelet function were observed in platelet concentrates treated with 500 micrograms/ml AA during 5 days of storage.
• Absence of syncytia, 100% MT2 cell viability, and negative p24 antigen and HIV DNA confirmed inactivation.

Conclusions:

• Ascorbic acid at 500 micrograms/ml is effective in inactivating cell-free HIV in vitro.
• AA treatment shows promise for enhancing the safety of blood products without compromising platelet viability and function.