Induction of Cystine-Glutamate Transporter x_c⁻by Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Transactivator Protein Tat in Retinal Pigment Epithelium

Abstract

Expression of HIV-1 Tat in the retina decreases glutathione levels and increases gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase activity. Tat also upregulates the expression of system xc-. Glutathione levels may be decreased and the expression of xc- enhanced in the retina of patients with HIV-1 infection, leading to oxidative stress and excitotoxicity.