The Effects of Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy on the Levels of Superoxide Dismutase, Catalase and C-Reactive Proteinin HIV Infected Subjects in Nigeria

Abstract

The study determined the effects of highly active antiretroviral therapy on the levels of Superoxide dismutase, catalase and C-reactive protein HIV-infected subjects in Nigeria. A total of 50 HIV infected subjects aged 20-69 (39±10) years and 50 HIV seronegative control participantsaged 21-56 (35±10) years were recruited for the study. Blood samples were collected at 3 different points: before initiation of HAART, 6 months and 12 months into HAART. The serum levels of C - reactive protein (CRP), catalase, Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), CD4 + T cells and viral load counts were measured in these subjects before HAART initiation and at 6 and 12 months after HAART intake. Standard laboratory methods were used in the analysis of these parameters. The results showed that CRP was significantly increased in HIV infected subjects before commencement of HAART and remained significantly increased after 12 months intake of HAART compared to control participants (P<0.01)respectively. SOD, and CD4 were significantly lower before HAART initiation and after 12 months intake of HAART compared to control participants (P<0.01) respectively. Viral load was significantly reduced after 12 months intake of HAART. There was a negative correlation between the viral load and SOD (r=-0.41, P<0.01) and catalase (r=-0.47, P<0.01) and a positive correlation between the viral load and CRP (r=0.48, P<0.01) before HAART initiation. After 12 months of HAART catalase showed a significant negative correlation with viral load (r=-0.37, P<0.05) while CRP showed a positive correlation with viral load (r=0.33, P<0.05). The study shows a persistently elevated CRP and reduced SOD and catalase after 12 months intake of HAART. These biomarkers support a central role of inflammation and oxidative stress in HIV pathogenesis.