Journal of AIDS & Clinical Research

Mayra Vargas

Publications

• Research Article
  Are Serotonin Alterations the Link between Thrombocytopenia and Poor Immune Status among HIV Infected Individuals?
  Author(s): María José Míguez-Burbano, Allan Rodriguez, Mayra Vargas, Gabriella Tantalean, RanjiniValiathan and Wenyaw ChanMaría José Míguez-Burbano, Allan Rodriguez, Mayra Vargas, Gabriella Tantalean, RanjiniValiathan and Wenyaw Chan
  
  Objective: Thrombocytopenia (TCP<150 × 103 cells/mm3) has emerged as a relevant factor in the clinical course of HIV. However, the mechanisms mediating such observations have not been well characterized, limiting the possibility of creating targeted interventions. Notably, platelets are the storage and transporter system for serotonin and Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which recent laboratory studies associated with viral replication and lymphocyte survival. Thus, we posit that (1) TCP will be associated with reduced levels of BDNF and serotonin (2) That these alterations will lead to poor viro-immune responses to antiretroviral therapy. Methods: To achieve this goal, a total of 400 people living with HIV were consecutively enrolled to characterize the frequency of thrombocytopenia in hazardous and non-hazardous alcohol user populations in the HAART era. Th.. Read More»
  DOI: 10.4172/2155-6113.1000277

  Abstract PDF