HIV Induces TRAIL Sensitivity in Hepatocytes
2009

HIV Makes Liver Cells More Sensitive to Death Signals

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Babu Challagundla K., Suwansrinon Kanitta, Bren Gary D., Badley Andrew D., Rizza Stacey A.

Primary Institution: Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America

Hypothesis

Does HIV infection alter TRAIL sensitivity in hepatocytes?

Conclusion

HIV infection increases the sensitivity of liver cells to TRAIL-mediated apoptosis, which may contribute to liver disease in HIV-infected patients.

Supporting Evidence

  • HIV infection leads to increased TRAIL R2 expression on hepatocytes.
  • HIV gp120 binding to CXCR4 on hepatocytes enhances TRAIL sensitivity.
  • The acquired TRAIL sensitivity in hepatocytes is mediated by JNK II kinase.

Takeaway

HIV can make liver cells more likely to die when they encounter certain signals, which can lead to more liver problems for people with HIV.

Methodology

The study used human hepatocyte cell line Huh7 to assess the effects of HIV gp120 on TRAIL receptor expression and sensitivity to TRAIL-induced apoptosis.

Statistical Information

P-Value

<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0004623

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