Integrase inhibitors: current protagonists in antiretroviral therapy

Since HIV was identified as the etiological agent of AIDS, there have been significant advances in antiretroviral therapy (ART) that has reduced morbidity/mortality. Still, the viral genome's high mutation rate, suboptimal ART regimens, incomplete adherence to therapy and poor control of the viral load generate variants resistant to multiple drugs. Licensing over 30 anti-HIV drugs worldwide, including integrase inhibitors, has marked a milestone since they are potent and well-tolerated drugs. In addition, they favor a faster recovery of CD4(+) T cells. They also increase the diversity profile of the gut microbiota and reduce inflammatory markers. All of these highlight the importance of including them in different ART regimens.

Automated summary

Since the identification of HIV as the cause of AIDS, there have been significant advancements in antiretroviral therapy (ART) that have reduced morbidity and mortality. However, the high mutation rate of the viral genome, suboptimal ART regimens, incomplete adherence to therapy, and poor control of viral load have led to the emergence of drug-resistant variants. The licensing of over 30 anti-HIV drugs worldwide, including integrase inhibitors, is a significant milestone as these drugs are potent, well-tolerated, and play a role in CD4 (+) T cell recovery and gut microbiota diversity.