Combination Antiretroviral Therapy (cART) induces CNS Neurotoxicity via Oxidative neuronal damage
Keywords:
Neurotoxicity, combination antiretroviral therapy, HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders, Morris Water MazeAbstract
Background: The newer approach to antiretroviral treatments using combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) has led to significant viral suppression but the associated adverse effects from the long-term exposure remain prevalent. This study evaluates the neurotoxicity and reproductive toxicity of cARTs. Methods: Behavioral studies using elevated plus maze, forced swim test, Morris water maze and open field test were used to assess neurobehavioral activities while biochemical parameters were assayed for brain oxidative markers. The reproductive hormones were analyzed along with seminal fluid. Histological staining of brain and testicular tissues was done to evaluate structural changes. Results: cART increased anxiety-related activities, induced memory deficit but showed no depressive activity. There was CNS-associated activity in the open field test, the brain antioxidant activity was reduced, and histological examination shows brain regions with cortical lesions. The reproductive hormones were unaltered and no histological abnormality was seen in the testes and epididymis. Conclusion: The outcome of the study showed that cART induces neurotoxic effect but no reproductive toxicity was observed.