Wnt7a mediates the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway to influence ferroptosis in T lymphocytes of HIV-infected individuals.

Chronic inflammation in virus-suppressed people living with human immunodeficiency virus infection: A microbiology-oriented perspective on gut barrier failure, microbial translocation, and immune activation.

Virtual cell/virtual cell like: The key to unlocking a new era of HIV/AIDS treatment ?

Visceral leishmaniasis & HIV co-infection in Bangladesh: Investigating prevalence and policy recommendations.

Cell-to-cell transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) presents a significant challenge to combination antiretroviral therapy (cART), as this mode of infection is markedly more efficient and often exhibits increased resistance to antiviral agents compared to cell-free viral infection. However, the impact of cell-to-cell virus transmission on the efficacy of broadly neutralizing antibody (bNAb) therapy remains unclear. In this study, we develop a mathematical model that incorporates both cell-free and cell-to-cell virus transmission, as well as antibody-sensitive and -resistant virus strains, to investigate HIV dynamics during bNAbs administration. The model is calibrated using clinical data from six responding infected individuals receiving VRC01 infusion. Numerical simulations using the best-fit parameter values suggest that, within the framework of our model, cell-to-cell virus transmission, particularly mediated by resistant infected cells, becomes the major route of CD4+ T cell infection during antibody treatment. Moreover, variations in the neutralization sensitivity of cell-to-cell virus transmission significantly influence intermediate-phase viral load. Furthermore, for both two- and three-dose regimens, while an experimental 28-day dosing interval delays viral rebound relative to a single dose, an optimized 44-day interval maximizes suppression. Crucially, exceeding this 44-day window by even one day resets the rebound time to the single-dose baseline. These results highlight the potential role of cell-to-cell transmission in sustaining HIV infection despite bNAb pressure and the need to optimize dosing regimens to improve outcomes. These model-based predictions warrant further experimental and clinical investigation.

BACKGROUND Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) caused by human erythrovirus B19 is a rare condition typically associated with persistent anemia in immunocompromised hosts. Although erythrovirus B19 infection is usually self-limited in immunocompetent individuals, it may become chronic in patients with impaired immune function. Reports describing erythrovirus B19 as the initial manifestation leading to a diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection are exceedingly uncommon. CASE REPORT A previously healthy 23-year-old male university student presented with severe symptomatic anemia (hemoglobin 3.6 g/dL) requiring transfusional support. During hospitalization, he was newly diagnosed with HIV infection, with a baseline viral load of 811 000 copies/mL and CD4 count of 33 cells/µL. Antiretroviral therapy with tenofovir, lamivudine, and dolutegravir was initiated, along with prophylaxis comprising trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and folic acid supplementation. Two weeks later, the patient was readmitted with recurrent severe anemia. Extensive laboratory evaluation excluded nutritional deficiencies, hemolysis, opportunistic infections, and drug toxicity. Bone marrow biopsy confirmed PRCA. Polymerase chain reaction and serology testing confirmed acute erythrovirus B19 infection. The patient was treated with a single dose of intravenous immunoglobulin, which resulted in stabilization of hemoglobin levels and clinical improvement; there was no evidence of relapse during 3 months of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Erythrovirus-B19-associated PRCA can be the first clinical clue to HIV infection. Early recognition and treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin may prevent recurrent anemia and improve outcomes in this vulnerable population.

Exercise pulmonary hypertension in asymptomatic patients with HIV infection Insights from the RIGHT-NET registry.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections are both major public health concerns in sub-Saharan Africa. Co-infection with these virus accelerates liver disease progression, increases hepatotoxicity, undermines treatment effectiveness, and raises mortality risk. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the pooled prevalence of HBV-HIV co-infection in Nigeria. We searched databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Embase) from their respective start dates (ranging from 1946 to 1970) through December 31, 2024, to ensure a historical capture of co-infection data in Nigeria. Google scholar was searched to identify relevant grey literature and locally published studies in Nigeria. A random-effects meta-analysis was performed to estimate pooled prevalence and account for between-study variability. A total of 28 studies were included, resulting in an overall HBV-HIV co-infection prevalence of 7% (95% CI: 5-11%). Heterogeneity was very high (I² = 95.7%), and the prediction interval ranged widely from 1 to 47% resulting in very low certainty of evidence rating. Subgroup analysis showed similar prevalence in adults and children (7% for both). The children's estimate was homogeneous (I² = 3.7%, 95% CI: 5-8%) with low certainty rating while the adult estimate remained highly heterogeneous (I² = 96.3%, 95% CI: 4-12%;). Regionally, prevalence was higher in the Northern zones 9% (95% CI: 7-12%; I² = 77.2%) than in the Southern zones 6% (95% CI: 3-12%; I² = 96.9%). This comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis revealed a significant but highly variable landscape of HIV-HBV co-infection in Nigeria. While stable prevalence was observed in specific subpopulation like children, the high heterogeneity across the broader population suggests that diverse regional and demographic factors might be responsible. Therefore, strengthening integrated HIV-HBV screening and management must prioritize standardized practices, particularly within paediatric care to ensure early intervention and improve surveillance. There is the need for further research to identify the specific drivers of transmission in high-variability areas. Clinical trial number not applicable.

Hematological abnormalities are common in individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and can have significant clinical implications. These abnormalities can affect various components of the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. However, screening and follow up of HIV positive patients for these abnormalities is not well reported in Ethiopia, specifically in Harar. Therefore, this study is aimed to determine prevalence of hematological abnormalities and associated factors among Adult HIV infected patients on antiretroviral therapy at the Antiretroviral clinic of Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Eastern Ethiopia, from September 2, October 30, 2024. A hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted by involving 300 study participants using convenient sampling technique. Data related to socio-demographic, clinical and dietary variables were collected using structured questionnaires. All phase of quality assurance was maintained. Four milliliters of venous blood were collected from each study participant and complete blood count was determined using unicell DxH 800 hematological analyzer. Logistic regression was conducted to assess the association between hematological abnormalities and independent variables. P < .05 was considered statically significant. The overall prevalence of hematological abnormality among HIV/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients were 26.33%. Whereas prevalence of anemia, leucopenia and thrombocytopenia in this study were 16.7%, 4.33%, and 5.3%, respectively. HIV/AIDS patients with underweight BMI (AOR = 3.94, 95% CI: 1.08–14.36), male gender (AOR = 2.71, 95% CI: 1.35–5.44), HIV patients who have lived with HIV infections for more than 12 years (AOR = 2.77, 95% CI: 1.43–5.39) and HIV patients who have a monthly income of 1500 to 5000 Ethiopian birrs (AOR = 4.38, 95% CI: 1.19–16.1) were significantly associated with anemia. hematological abnormality was found to be a moderate public health problem among anti-retroviral therapy attendants in the current study area. Also, early detection and intervention among, males, patients having body mass index < 18.5 kg/m2, patients having low monthly income and patients who lived with HIV for more than 12 years is vital to reduce the magnitude of anemia and its consequences.

Preventing varicella-zoster virus infection is important in the management of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive persons. Varicella remains endemic worldwide, and HIV-positive persons can experience greater morbidity than the general population. We summarized the global literature on the safety and immunogenicity of the varicella vaccine in HIV-positive children. Systematic review of original reports on varicella vaccination of HIV-positive children, published through December 31, 2024, including assessment of safety, immunologic responses and effectiveness after vaccination. Eighteen articles were analyzed. Local reactions were the most common adverse events, albeit infrequent (<21% and <10% of vaccinees after dose 1 and 2, respectively). Systemic reactions were also infrequent, consisting mostly of low-grade fever. A vaccine-related rash, reported in <5% of vaccinees, had fewer lesions and a shorter duration than typical varicella. Serious adverse events were reported only when the vaccine was inadvertently administered to children with severe HIV immunosuppression. Varicella vaccination had no clinically significant impact on plasma HIV RNA or CD4+ T-cell count after either dose. An antibody response was reported in 60%-79% of HIV-positive vaccinees after dose 2 and often declined more rapidly than in uninfected children. Cell-mediated immunity was detected in 67%-83% after dose 2. No significant differences in adverse events or short-term immune response after vaccination correlated with past or current CD4+ T-cell status. The varicella vaccine had a favorable safety profile and induced specific immune responses in most nonseverely immunocompromised HIV-positive children. The vaccine remains contraindicated for persons with severe HIV infection. Robust data on the durability of immune response and long-term effectiveness are needed.

Recently, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection among young university students has garnered significant global attention. This study aimed to compare the demographics, behaviors, and knowledge of male and female college students, in addition to investigating the self-reported HIV-related behaviors and attitudes of sexually active college students in Zhejiang Province, eastern China. This cross-sectional study was conducted using stratified cluster sampling. A self-developed web-based questionnaire was used to collect demographic and sexual behavior data, and those only sexually active students were analyzed. The χ2 test was then used to compare the characteristics of the participants across different genders. A total of 3873 students who reported engaging in sexual activity were evaluated in this study, representing 12.2% of the total student population. Among them, 2734 were men, accounting for 19.1% of all male students (2734/14,320). Sexually active college students had an average age of 20.18 ± 1.37 years. Significant statistical differences were found between male and female students about age, grade, place of household registration, monthly living cost, family relationships, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome-themed lectures or health education courses, HIV testing publicity, HIV risk self-assessment, voluntary counseling and testing for HIV, acceptance of one-night stands and commercial sex, condom use self-efficacy, and casual sex. The findings highlight significant gender disparities in sexual behaviors and HIV-related awareness among sexually active students, suggesting the need for gender-tailored sexual health education programs that address socioeconomic factors (e.g., household registration disparities) while strengthening condom use self-efficacy interventions, particularly for male students exhibiting higher-risk sexual practices. Sexually active college students displayed high levels of sexual openness and knowledge regarding HIV testing, but low testing rates, condom use, and condom use self-efficacy. In addition, a higher proportion of male students engaged in casual sex.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in pregnancy is associated with preterm birth (PTB), low birthweight (LBW), and perinatal death (PND). Although antiretroviral therapy (ART) suppresses viral load it does not prevent HIV-associated adverse pregnancy outcomes or resolve inflammation. As circulating maternal immune factors may not fully capture maternal-fetal interface immune dysregulation, this observational cohort study aimed to identify localized and systemic immune factors associated with PTB, LBW and PND in ART-treated pregnant people living with HIV (PPLWH). We enrolled 118 PPLWH in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, during the second or third trimester. We collected maternal peripheral plasma (at enrollment, 1-3 days post-delivery, and postpartum) alongside umbilical cord and placental plasma at delivery. Concentrations of 45 immune factors were measured via LegendPlex and ELISAs and associations analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis tests with Dunn's correction or Mann-Whitney tests. Placental plasma exhibited the highest overall concentrations of immune factors, highlighting a distinct localized microenvironment. Among 118 pregnancies, 35 (30%) resulted in PTB, 10 (9%) in PND, and 9 (8%) in LBW. Compared to term births, PTB was associated with higher levels of the chemokines CCL20, CXCL9, and CXCL10 in cord and/or postdelivery plasma (p<0.01), while placental CCL20 levels were lower (p<0.05). Compared to live births, PND was associated with higher postdelivery CXCL1, cord IL-8, placental MPO and NGAL (p<0.05); higher postdelivery CXCL5 (p<0.01); and higher S100A8/A9 levels in cord and postdelivery plasma (p<0.01 and p<0.001, respectively). Finally, LBW was associated with higher enrollment IL-18 and S100A8/A9 levels (p<0.05 and p<0.01, respectively); as well as higher SAA levels in postdelivery and postpartum plasma (p<0.05). In ART-treated PPLWH, distinct adverse birth outcomes are driven by time- and compartment-specific immune pathways. PTB is associated with localized T-cell chemokine responses, PND with neutrophil recruitment and activation, and LBW with pro-inflammatory cytokine and acute-phase protein responses. These pathways provide mechanistic insights into pregnancy complications in PPLWH and highlight potential compartment-specific biomarkers for risk stratification.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) continues to pose a major global public health challenge despite substantial advances in antiretroviral therapy. A central obstacle to the development of an effective and durable HIV vaccine is the virus’s extraordinary capacity to evade host immune responses. HIV employs multiple molecular and cellular immune evasion strategies, including extensive genetic variability driven by error-prone reverse transcription, glycan shielding and conformational masking of envelope glycoproteins, rapid escape from cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses, downregulation of major histocompatibility complex molecules, and the establishment of long-lived latent viral reservoirs. These mechanisms not only permit persistent infection but also undermine the induction of robust, broadly protective immune responses following vaccination. This narrative review synthesizes recent advances in understanding HIV immune evasion and critically examines how these mechanisms have constrained traditional and modern vaccine approaches. Emerging strategies, including broadly neutralizing antibody–based vaccines, mosaic and germline-targeting immunogens, mRNA platforms, and combination immunotherapeutic approaches, are discussed in the context of overcoming immune escape. A clearer understanding of HIV immune evasion remains essential for guiding next-generation vaccine design and advancing toward long-term immune control or functional cure of HIV infection.

Introduction: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated kidney disease encompasses a diverse spectrum of glomerular, tubulointerstitial, and vascular pathologies. While HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN) and immune complex–mediated glomerular disease in the setting of HIV are well-recognized entities, their simultaneous presentation with thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) and diffuse infiltrative lymphocytosis syndrome (DILS) has not been previously documented. We report a novel case of advanced HIV infection manifesting as crescentic lupus-like glomerulonephritis, CD8-predominant tubulointerstitial nephritis, and acute TMA. Case Presentation: A 43-year-old man presented with rapidly progressive kidney failure, nephrotic-range proteinuria, hematuria, and hypertensive emergency. Laboratory workup revealed newly diagnosed HIV infection confirmed by fourth-generation antibody assay with a CD4 count of 53 cells/µL. Kidney biopsy demonstrated a "full-house" immune complex-mediated glomerulonephritis with cellular and fibrous crescents involving 5 of 8 viable glomeruli, chronic active CD8+ lymphocytic interstitial nephritis, and arteriolar fibrin thrombus with endothelial injury. Electron microscopy revealed mesangial and subendothelial electron-dense deposits and tubuloreticular inclusions. No evidence of systemic lupus erythematosus, paraproteinemia, or other active infections were found. A diagnosis of crescentic immune complex–mediated glomerulonephritis (GN) in the setting of HIV with DILS-like interstitial nephritis and superimposed acute TMA was established. Despite antiretroviral therapy, corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide, and plasma exchange, kidney function recovery was incomplete and the patient remained dialysis-dependent. Conclusion: This case represents a rare “all-in-one” manifestation involving glomerular, interstitial, and vascular injury. These findings underscore profound immune dysregulation in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), where immune deficiency coexists with compartmentalized immune activation. Recognition of overlapping pathology is essential for accurate diagnosis and individualized, risk-adapted management.

The advent of antiretroviral therapy has transformed Human Immunodeficiency Virus infection from a fatal diagnosis into a manageable chronic condition, yet the virus persisted in latent reservoirs that remained untouched by current treatment strategies. Despite decades of viral suppression, patients cannot safely discontinue therapy without experiencing rapid viral rebound, underscoring the urgent need for curative interventions. This review examined the emerging role of toll-like receptor agonists as adjuvants in therapeutic HIV vaccines designed to reduce or eliminate viral reservoirs. This article synthesized current literature on TLR agonist based therapeutic vaccines, examining preclinical studies, clinical trial data, and immunological mechanisms underlying their potential efficacy. The findings revealed that TLR agonists, particularly those targeting TLR7, TLR8, and TLR9, demonstrated significant capacity to reverse viral latency, enhance HIV specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses, and promoted innate immune activation that collectively contributed to measurable reductions in reservoir size. Clinical trials had shown promising but variable results, with some patients achieving prolonged periods of viral control following analytical treatment interruption. The integration of TLR agonists into therapeutic vaccine platforms represented a scientifically rational approach to achieving functional HIV cure, though significant challenges regarding safety, efficacy, and patient selection remained. Future research should prioritize combination immunotherapeutic strategies that synergistically target multiple aspects of viral persistence. Keywords: Therapeutic HIV vaccines, Toll like receptor agonists, Viral reservoir, Latency reversal, Functional cure.

Central nervous system (CNS) infections are serious and potentially life-threatening complications in patients with immunodeficiency. Predisposing conditions include organ transplant, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, and treatment with steroids, immunosuppressive agents, anti-complement therapy, or anti-B cell therapy. Neurologists must anticipate opportunistic and severe infection in these settings and closely monitor the clinical course. This review focuses on the clinical information and management of CNS infections in organ transplant and hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients, as well as in patients with HIV infection. It also discusses infection management in patients receiving steroids and/or immunosuppressive agents and in those treated with anti-complement or anti-B cell therapy.

AB-120. Sensory peripheral neuropathy and it’s association with human immunodeficiency virus infection

Mycobacterial spindle cell pseudotumour (MSP) is a rare benign disease characterized by proliferation of spindle-shaped histiocytes containing acid-fast mycobacteria. Most of the reported cases occur in lymph nodes and skin, predominantly in immunocompromised patients, particularly those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection or after organ transplantation. The occurrence of MSP in the pulmonary parenchyma is less common. We describe a case of MSP arising in a lung sequestration in an immunocompetent host and present a systematic review of all cases of pulmonary MSP reported in the English literature.

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a central nervous system infection caused by reactivation of the JC polyomavirus (JCV). Its diagnosis relies on clinical symptoms, brain magnetic resonance imaging findings, detection of JCV in the cerebrospinal fluid, exclusion of other diagnoses, and histopathological examination. In PML patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, antiretroviral therapy is fundamental. In patients with non-HIV PML, various treatments including combination therapy with mefloquine and mirtazapine, as well as new antiviral drugs, have been attempted in recent years.

The majority of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitisB virus (HBV) and hepatitisC virus (HCV) infection diagnoses in France involve migrant populations, who face challenges in navigating healthcare systems. Community associations that liaise with migrant populations are well placed to screen for these viruses and provide post-screening support. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of community association-based HIV, HBV and HCV screening campaigns and support in migrant populations in France. The retrospective, observational DéPAC (DÉpistage Par des Associations Communautaires [Screening by Community Associations]) study evaluated data from 10 community associations primarily supporting Afro-Caribbean migrants based in Paris, Lyon and Marseille. The associations provided data from January to December 2023 on the number of point-of-care (POC) HIV, HBV and HCV tests performed, positivity rates, and follow-up support. The community associations performed 29,422 POC tests (HIV 10,293; HBV 9925; HCV 9204), of which 502 returned a positive result. Positivity rates were 1.3% for HIV, 2.8% for HBV and 1.0% for HCV; 78.3% of positive tests were from individuals with unknown viral status prior to the tests. Following a positive test result, referral for medical support was almost always offered and social support was frequently offered. Medical and social support were also offered following negative tests, but follow-up data were missing for many of the tests. High positivity rates for HIV, HBV and HCV were observed among migrants in France who underwent community-based testing. This suggests that such screening can effectively target this population and provide an opportunity to access appropriate support. Graphical abstract available for this article.