Função vascular e estresse oxidativo em pacientes fisicamente ativos e inativos vivendo com HIV/AIDS

Abstract

Introduction: Studies assessing the vascular function and redox status of people living with HIV in response to exercise training are scarce. Objective: To compare macro- and microvascular endothelial function in physically active vs. inactive HIV-infected patients under antiretroviral therapy. Methods: Using a cross-sectional design, 19 patients with HIV (53.1 ± 6.1 yr) physically active (60 min/session; 3 sessions/wk; moderate intensity) and 25 inactive (51.2 ± 6.3 yr) were compared as for macro- and microvascular reactivity, systemic microvascular density, and oxidative stress. Results: Active patients showed greater increment of forearm blood flow during reactive hyperemia (521.7±241.9 vs. 361.4±125.0 %; P=0.04) and systemic microvascular density (120.8±21.1 vs. 105.6±25.0 capillaries.mm-2; P=0.03) than inactive patients. No significant difference between groups was detected for endothelium-dependent and independent skin microvascular response (P>0.05). As for redox status, carbonyl groups (P=0.22), lipid peroxidation (P=0.86), catalase activity (P=0.99), and nitric oxide levels (P=0.72) were similar across groups. However, superoxide dismutase activity was greater in active vs. inactive HIV (0.118±0.013 vs. 0.111±0.007 UmL-1; P=0.05). Immune function reflected by total T CD4 and T CD8 cells count (cell.mm-3) did not differ between active and inactive groups (P>0.82). Conclusion: Physically active HIV exhibited similar immune function, but greater macrovascular reactivity, systemic microvascular density, and superoxide dismutase activity than inactive patients of similar age.