Differential pattern in circulating nitrogen derivatives, lactoferrin, and anti-lactoferrin antibodies in HIV type 1 and HIV type 2 infections.

HIV-1 infection is associated with a dramatic reduction in antioxidative molecules both at the cellular level and in the circulation. This is particularly so for lactoferrin, an iron-binding protein involved in natural defenses (antimicrobial and antiviral activities, etc.) and found in whole secretions, including milk and mucus. In addition to its ability to chelate iron ions, lactoferrin inhibits hydroxy radical formation and interacts with nitric oxide (NO). Levels of plasma lactoferrin decreased in HIV-1-infected patients in correlation with progression of the disease, and highly specific anti-lactoferrin autoantibodies increased. This profile was specific to HIV-1 infection; it was not found in HIV-2-infected patients. In parallel with the drop in lactoferrin, a marked increase in circulating nitrogen derivatives was observed in HIV-1-infected patients, whereas low levels were found in normal donors and in HIV-2-infected patients. These data suggested hyperstimulation of the NO pathway throughout HIV-1 but not HIV-2 infection. This overproduction of NO could play an important role in the development of AIDS symptoms and signs.