Abstract

The influence of substances of abuse on the progression of HIV-1 infection is controversial, and pharmacologic factors have been postulated as a potential explanation for conflicting data arising from epidemiological studies and animal models. In the present study, cell culture models of HIV-1 infection were used to test this hypothesis. The synthetic cannabinoid WIN 55,212-2 was found to potently inhibit HIV-1 expression in a concentration- and time-dependent manner in CD4 + lymphocyte and microglial cell cultures. In sharp contrast, morphine either inhibited or stimulated viral expression, depending upon the time of drug exposure, and marked differences were observed between CD4 + and microglial cells. Also, WIN 55,212-2 inhibited the stimulatory effect of morphine in HIV-1 infected CD4 + cells. These in vitro findings support the notion that pharmacologic factors need to be considered in epidemiological studies and animal models that pertain to HIV-1 infection.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.