Abstract
Background: Studies of the effects of antiretroviral drugs on lipid metabolism are limited by the availability of suitable models. We have thus developed an animal model utilising Göttingen mini-pigs. The normal lipid metabolism of mini-pigs closely reflects that of humans and they are expected to have similar reactions to antiretroviral drugs. Methods: The pigs were treated orally with high doses of the protease Inhibitors ritonavir and saquinavir for 4 weeks. The model allows repeated concomitant biopsies from liver, muscle, adipose tissue and plasma samples. Results: The study showed a general decrease in polyunsaturated fatty acids; changes in both saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids were also apparent after antiretroviral treatment. The changes were observed after 4 weeks of treatment. At 4 weeks post-treatment, the levels of all fatty acids were lower compared with pretreatment levels, suggesting a prolonged effect of the antiretroviral drug treatment lasting beyond the 4 week post-treatment observation period. Conclusions: The Göttingen mini-pig model Is a promising animal model for rapid screening of the metabolic effects induced by antiretroviral drugs.
| Originalsprog | Engelsk |
|---|---|
| Tidsskrift | Antiviral Therapy |
| Vol/bind | 15 |
| Sider (fra-til) | 243-251 |
| ISSN | 1359-6535 |
| DOI | |
| Status | Udgivet - 2010 |
Emneord
- Det tidligere Farmaceutiske Fakultet