Increased vascular function and superoxide dismutase activity in physically active vs inactive adults living with HIV

This study compared macro- and microvascular endothelial function and redox status in active vs inactive HIV-infected patients (HIVP) under antiretroviral therapy. Using a cross-sectional design, macro- and microvascular reactivity, systemic microvascular density, and oxidative stress were compared between 19 HIVP (53.1 +/- 6.1 year) enrolled in a multimodal training program (aerobic, strength and flexibility exercises) for at least 12 months (60-minutes sessions performed 3 times/wk with moderate intensity) vs 25 sedentary HIVP (51.2 +/- 6.3 year). Forearm blood flow during reactive hyperemia (521.7 +/- 241.9 vs 361.4% +/- 125.0%; P = 0.04) and systemic microvascular density (120.8 +/- 21.1 vs 105.6 +/- 25.0 capillaries/mm(2); P = 0.03) was greater in active than inactive patients. No significant difference between groups was detected for endothelium-dependent and independent skin microvascular vasodilation (P > 0.05). As for redox status, carbonyl groups (P = 0.22), lipid peroxidation (P = 0.86), catalase activity (P = 0.99), and nitric oxide levels (P = 0.72) were similar across groups. However, superoxide dismutase activity was greater in active vs inactive HIVP (0.118 +/- 0.013 vs 0.111 +/- 0.007 U/mL; P = 0.05). Immune function reflected by total T CD4 and T CD8 counts (cell/mm(3)) did not differ between active and inactive groups (P > 0.82). In conclusion, physically active HIVP exhibited similar immune function, but greater macrovascular reactivity, systemic microvascular density, and superoxide dismutase activity than inactive patients of similar age.