Add-on Pyridostigmine Enhances CD4⁺ T-Cell Recovery in HIV-1-Infected Immunological Non-Responders: A Proof-of-Concept Study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

In human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infection, persistent T-cell activation leads to rapid turnover and increased cell death, leading to immune exhaustion and increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections. Stimulation of the vagus nerve increases acetylcholine (ACh) release and modulates inflammation in chronic inflammatory conditions, a neural mechanism known as the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (CAP). Pyridostigmine (PDG), an ACh-esterase inhibitor, increases the half-life of endogenous ACh, therefore mimicking the CAP. We have previously observed that PDG reduces ex vivo activation and proliferation of T-cells obtained from people living with HIV.

Methods

We conducted a 16-week proof-of-concept open trial using PDG as add-on thera

SUBMITTER: Valdes-Ferrer SI 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5651246 | biostudies-literature | 2017

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature