Synergistic effects of alcohol and HIV TAT protein on macrophage migration and neurotoxicity.

The trans-activator of transcription (TAT) is a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) regulatory protein that is actively sloughed by infected cells. Once released, TAT can injure bystander cells and bring about their dysfunction. In the presence of ethanol, TAT-induced toxicity potentiates and, in so doing, exacerbates inflammation.

Possible mechanisms of HIV neuro-infection in alcohol use: Interplay of oxidative stress, inflammation, and energy interruption.

Alcohol use and HIV-1 infection have a pervasive impact on brain function, which extends to the requirement, distribution, and utilization of energy within the central nervous system. This effect on neuroenergetics may explain, in part, the exacerbation of HIV-1 disease under the influence of alcohol, particularly the persistence of HIV-associated neurological complications. The objective of this review article is to highlight the possible mechanisms of HIV/AIDS progression in alcohol users from the perspective of oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and interruption of energy metabolism.