Heme oxygenase-1 promoter (GT) _<i>n</i> polymorphism associates with HIV neurocognitive impairment

Abstract

Our study identified the short HO-1 (GT) _<i>n</i> allele as partially protective against developing HIV NCI. It further suggests that this clinical protective effect is particularly relevant in persons of African ancestry, where the lower prevalence of short HO-1 (GT) _<i>n</i> alleles may limit induction of HO-1 expression in response to inflammation and oxidative stress. Therapeutic strategies that enhance HO-1 expression may decrease HIV-associated neuroinflammation and limit HIV NCI.