[Perspective] Hypochlorous Acid (HOCL): A Multifaceted and Promising Therapeutic Perspective Against Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

Abstract

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, known as Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), continues to be a major global health issue, impacting millions worldwide. The disease progresses through the depletion of CD4+ T lymphocytes, compromising the immune system's capacity to fight opportunistic infections and cancers, leading to high morbidity and mortality without treatment. The socioeconomic impact of HIV/AIDS is profound, exacerbating poverty and inequality, especially in under-resourced regions. Standard HIV/AIDS management includes antiretroviral therapy (ART), prophylaxis against opportunistic infections, and supportive care, with ART regimens comprising various drug classes such as nucleoside and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, protease inhibitors, integrase inhibitors, and entry inhibitors. These therapies have transformed HIV into a manageable chronic condition, yet access to these treatments remains unequal globally. This perspective traditional approaches to HIV therapy, the socioeconomic impacts of the disease, and the potential of innovative treatments like hypochlorous acid (HOCl). HOCl is a naturally occurring antimicrobial agent produced by neutrophils, effective against a broad spectrum of pathogens through mechanisms of oxidative damage and immune modulation. Given its antiviral properties, especially in the context of early innate immune responses, this review explores the feasibility of HOCl as a novel therapeutic avenue in HIV/AIDS management, aiming to broaden the current treatment landscape and address ongoing challenges in global HIV care.