HIV replication, inflammation, and the effect of starting antiretroviral therapy on plasma asymmetric dimethylarginine, a novel marker of endothelial dysfunction

Background—HIV infection is associated with premature development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Understanding the effects of HIV replication on endothelial dysfunction and platelet activation may identify treatment targets to reduce CVD risk. Methods—A subgroup of HIV-infected participants in the Strategies for Management of Antiretroviral Therapy (SMART) study off antiretroviral therapy (ART) at entry enabled a randomized comparison of immediate versus deferred ART initiation of changes in asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), soluble CD40L and P-selectin levels. Results—At study entry, median (IQR) levels of ADMA, sCD40L, and P-selectin were 0.57 (0.49-0.66) μg/mL, 251 (135-696) μmol/L, and 34 (28-44) pg/mL. Compared to those randomized to deferral of ART (n=114), participants randomized to immediate ART (n=134) had 10.3% lower ADMA levels (p=0.003) at 12 months; treatment differences in sCD40L (95% CI:-17 to 44%; p=0.53) and P-selectin (95% CI:-10 to 10%; p=0.95) were not significant. The difference in ADMA for those assigned immediate ART compared to those assigned ART deferral was greater