Glutathione deficiency is associated with impaired survival in HIV disease

• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.94.5.1967
• Publication Date: 2002-07-26T14:40:52Z
• Authors: Leonore A. Herzen...; Stephen C. De Rosa; J. Gregson Dubs; Mario Roederer; Michael T. Anderson; Stephen W. Ela; Stanley C. Deresi...; Leonard A. Herzen...
• Keywords: Tripeptide

Glutathione (GSH), a cysteine-containing tripeptide, is essential for the viability and function of virtually all cells. In vitro studies showing that low GSH levels both promote HIV expression impair T cell suggested link between depletion disease progression. Clinical presented here directly demonstrate predict poor survival in otherwise indistinguishable HIV-infected subjects. Specifically, we show deficiency CD4 cells from such subjects associated with markedly decreased 2–3 years after baseline data collection (Kaplan–Meier logistic regression analyses, P < 0.0001 analyses). This finding, supported by evidence demonstrating oral administration prodrug N -acetylcysteine replenishes these suggesting can improve their survival, establishes as key determinant disease. Further, it argues strongly unnecessary or excessive use acetaminophen, alcohol, other drugs known to deplete should be avoided individuals.