Journal of AIDS & Clinical Research

Luis A Espinoza

Publications

• Research Article
  Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor: From Neurobiology to Sexual Risk Prevention
  Author(s): María José Míguez, Luis A Espinoza, Caroline Perez and Christopher KahlerMaría José Míguez, Luis A Espinoza, Caroline Perez and Christopher Kahler
  
  Objective: The authors’ draw on neurobiological theory to posit that sexual risks might be associated with neurological changes, specifically, those neuro-adaptive changes associated with addictions. We propose that low levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a signaling molecule involved in cognitive, emotional, and addiction behaviors, may play a key role in the expression of high-risk sexual behaviors. Methods: In a prospective cohort of 400 people living with HIV (PLWH), information was collected regarding smoking (Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence), hazardous alcohol use (men >14 and women >7 drinks/week), sexual behaviors. To assess the role of BDNF, platelet poor plasma was obtained to measure BDNF levels and participants were dichotomized into Groups 1 (BDNF ≤ 5000 pg/mL) and 2 (BDNF >.. Read More»
  DOI: 10.4172/2155-6113.1000620

  Abstract PDF