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AIDS-associated mycoplasmas
1Department of AIDS and Retroviruses, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.
Abstract:
Previously, we hypothesized that mycoplasmas could act as cofactors accelerating the progression of HIV disease. In the present paper, we review the current knowledge on three mycoplasmas (Mycoplasma fermentans, M. penetrans, and M. pirum) that have been implicated as these putative cofactors. All three mycoplasmas have been isolated from patients with HIV infection, and serological studies have suggested that the presence of M. penetrans could be associated with HIV infection. These mycoplasmas share the capacity to hydrolyze arginine and ferment glucose as well as to attach to and invade eukaryotic cells. The possible mechanisms that could allow mycoplasmas to influence HIV pathogenesis, specifically through the activation of the immune system or the production of superantigen or by contributing to the oxidative stress observed in HIV-infected subjects, are discussed. These studies have offered and will continue to offer major contributions to a better understanding of mycoplasmal flora in humans and have begun to unveil some of the mechanisms of virulence of these organisms.
Insights
Mycoplasmas may accelerate Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) disease progression. This review examines three mycoplasma species (Mycoplasma fermentans, M. penetrans, and M. pirum) and their potential roles as cofactors in HIV infection.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Virology
Background:
- Mycoplasmas are bacteria that can infect humans.
- Some mycoplasma species have been found in individuals with HIV infection.
- Previous research suggests mycoplasmas might influence HIV disease progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on mycoplasmas as potential cofactors in HIV disease.
- To discuss the characteristics and isolation of Mycoplasma fermentans, M. penetrans, and M. pirum in HIV-infected patients.
- To explore potential mechanisms by which mycoplasmas may affect HIV pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on mycoplasmas and HIV.
- Analysis of isolation data and serological studies.
- Discussion of mycoplasma characteristics, including arginine hydrolysis, glucose fermentation, and cell invasion.
Main Results:
- Mycoplasma fermentans, M. penetrans, and M. pirum have been isolated from HIV-infected patients.
- Serological evidence suggests a possible association between M. penetrans and HIV infection.
- These mycoplasmas share metabolic and cellular invasion capabilities.
Conclusions:
- Mycoplasmas are implicated as potential cofactors in HIV pathogenesis.
- Mechanisms may involve immune activation, superantigen production, or oxidative stress.
- Further research is needed to understand mycoplasma virulence and their role in HIV.