Evaluation of cytokine levels in HIV-infected individuals on therapy with tenofovir, lamivudine, and dolutegravir

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is essential to reduce viral load and restore CD4+ T cell levels in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). However, different treatment protocols influence the levels of cytokines, important mediators of the immune response. This study aimed to evaluate cytokine levels in PLWHA on therapy with tenofovir (TDF), lamivudine (3TC), and dolutegravir (DTG). The results showed that PLWHA on treatment had a significant increase in CD4+ T lymphocyte levels and a reduction in CD8+ T lymphocyte levels compared to naive (untreated) individuals. Furthermore, PLWHA treated with TDF/3TC/DTG had a significant reduction in interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-10 levels (P<0.02; P=0.047) compared to other ART regimens. Naive individuals had higher levels of IL-2 and interferon (IFN)-γ, while their levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF), IL-4, and IL-10 were lower. These findings suggested that TDF/3TC/DTG treatment modulated cytokines, reducing chronic inflammation and improving the immune response in PLWHA. The decrease in anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-4 and IL-10, may be associated with better regulation of the immune system, resulting in greater control of infection and a balanced inflammatory response.