Oxidative stress in HIV infection and its effects on the female reproductive system and pregnancy

Abstract

The epidemic situation of HIV infection in the world today remains extremely difficult. In recent years, the virus has been increasingly affecting the so-called prosperous segments of the population. This is confirmed by the increase in the percentage of heterosexual transmission. Thus, in 2019, almost 60% of HIV infections were associated with this type of transmission. The determination of possible differences in the course of the infection by gender has been of interest to researchers from the very beginning of the epidemic. Undoubtedly, there should be differences in the course of the disease in men and women, especially taking into account pregnancy and childbirth in women, and this is the subject of numerous studies in various countries. In the world medical literature, the clinical course of the disease is adequately covered. However, at present, little is known about lipid peroxidation and the activity of the antioxidant blood system in HIV patients, including pregnant women. This article presents a review of the current state of the problem and analyzes studies of free radical oxidation in HIV-infected people. This study was aimed at the analysis and discussion of data on free radical and antioxidant system activities in HIV-infected people, including pregnant women.