Adipogenic gene variants in patients with HIV-associated lipodystrophy

Although highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has been hugely beneficial in the treatment of HIV, HIV lipodystrophy (HIVLD) associated with HAART isaserious adverse effect, with long-term consequences including metabolic disturbances and an increased risk of atherosclerotic disease. Although HIVLD is clearly related to the drug regimen, individual susceptibility also plays a role. We hypothesized that variation in genes regulating adipogenesis, and in those implicated in inherited forms oflipodystrophy, may predispose to the development of HIVLD.