Zn Supplementation in HIV Immunological Non Responders

Zinc is an essential micronutrient crucial for the normal functioning of the human immune system. Zinc deficiency impairs immune function and increases infection risk, especially in vulnerable populations like people living with HIV. This project aims to study the role of zinc supplementation in improving immune response in HIV-infected individuals who are Immunological Non-Responders (INRs)-people who have not restored Cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4) T-cell counts despite receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). INRs face a higher risk of opportunistic infections, non-HIV comorbidities due to high inflammation, and generally have a poorer prognosis. Zinc supports immune function by aiding in immune cell development, cytokine production, and maintaining mucosal barrier integrity.

Several studies have investigated zinc supplementation in HIV-infected individuals, showing significant increases in CD4 counts and a reduction in opportunistic infections. However, the doses used vary, and the results are sometimes contradictory. Our objective is to study whether zinc supplementation in INRs improves immune function, specifically by increasing CD4 counts, decreasing inflammation, and affecting other immune parameters.

This project involves a clinical trial where INRs will be randomly assigned to receive 75mg of elemental zinc daily (in the form of 3 zinc acetate tablets) along with their usual treatment or to continue their treatment without zinc supplements. We will assess whether zinc supplementation increases CD4 lymphocytes, reduces inflammation in INRs, and induces immune system changes. We will also investigate immune system functionality by measuring the presence of the Torque Teno Virus (TTV), a harmless virus, and see how zinc supplementation impacts its control by monitoring viral load changes.

Recent research by our group has demonstrated that zinc has both antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects. Zinc supplementation is generally safe and well-tolerated, with few adverse effects. Zinc is available in various forms, including gluconate, acetate, and sulfate. Although the recommended daily dose is 40mg, studies have shown that doses exceeding 80mg have been safely administered for over 10 years without side effects.

We have selected a 75mg daily dose of elemental zinc for several reasons. Studies that showed no effect used lower doses (15-20mg/day), and our research found that 75mg/day improved outcomes in acute viral infections like Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV2). We believe previous failures to show zinc's efficacy were due to insufficient dosing. After extensive literature review, we concluded that 75mg daily is safe and likely to produce the desired effects.

Our goal is to demonstrate the efficacy of zinc as an immunomodulatory agent. If successful, this could be a simple and cost-effective way to improve the quality of life for many people. We would recommend its widespread use under medical supervision, particularly at the doses being studied.