RA Effect on Cell Surface Molecules in Vivo

Retinoids have been shown in in vitro and ex vivo models to have the ability to reverse latency reactivating the HIV reservoir and the potential for selective eradication of HIV-harbouring cells. We feel that acitretin shows significant potential as a potential adjuvant to current ART regimens, however, there is a lack of data to demonstrate that treatment with acitretin at normal are able to induce molecular and transcription changes consistent with the above activities. In order to provide a scientific basis for retinoid therapy in HIV infection, a Phase I trial of acitretin in human subjects is proposed.