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Beta-carotene in HIV infection
G O Coodley1, H D Nelson, M O Loveless
1Division of Internal Medicine, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201-3098.
Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes
|March 1, 1993
Summary
Beta-carotene supplementation significantly increased white blood cell counts and CD4 counts in HIV patients. This suggests beta-carotene may have an immunostimulatory role in managing HIV.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Nutritional Science
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Beta-carotene is known for its immunostimulatory properties.
- Previous research indicates beta-carotene may enhance CD4+ T-cell counts in individuals with HIV.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of beta-carotene in increasing CD4+ T-cell counts among HIV-infected patients.
- To assess the safety and tolerability of high-dose beta-carotene supplementation in this population.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover clinical trial involving 21 HIV-seropositive patients.
- Participants received beta-carotene (180 mg/day) or placebo for 4 weeks, followed by a crossover to the alternative treatment for another 4 weeks.
- Key outcomes measured included total white blood cell count, CD4+ T-cell counts, and CD4/CD8 ratios.
Main Results:
- Beta-carotene supplementation led to a statistically significant increase in total white blood cell count (p=0.01).
- A significant positive change in the percentage of CD4+ T-cells (p=0.02) and CD4/CD8 ratios (p=0.02) was observed compared to placebo.
- While absolute CD4+ counts and lymphocyte levels showed a positive trend with beta-carotene, these did not reach statistical significance.
Conclusions:
- Beta-carotene demonstrates an immunostimulatory effect in HIV-infected individuals.
- The findings suggest beta-carotene may be a beneficial adjunct therapy for HIV management.
- Further research is warranted to confirm its role in the treatment of HIV.
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