Immune modulation in HIV infection: fact or fantasy?

Research on immune modulation in HIV infection suggests antiviral drugs that prevent immunosuppression may be more effective than immunopotentiators that act to stimulate the immune system. Successful immune modulation requires both a thorough understanding of normal immune function and of the immunodeficiencies occurring in HIV infection. While over 50 possible immune modulating agents have been studied, only colony-stimulating factors (CSF) have proved useful in treating HIV patients. CSFs are a type of cytokine that seem to lessen neutropenia in patients with AIDS or AIDS-related complex. Another immunostimulant, Tacrine, is being studied for its ability to increase levels of CD4 T cells, which are depleted in HIV infection. Ironically, Trental, a drug that suppresses some aspects of the immune system, may enhance the quality of life and promote survival in HIV patients.