Nicotinamide as a Treatment for HIV Infections

The enzyme poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) is necessary for the successful integration of the HIV virus into DNA.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/queryd.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&
dopt=Abstract&list_uids=16002043&itool=pubmed_docsum

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/queryd.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&
dopt=Abstract&list_uids=15280503&itool=pubmed_docsum

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/queryd.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&
dopt=Abstract&list_uids=11248084&itool=pubmed_docsum

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/queryd.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&
dopt=Abstract&list_uids=8648736&itool=pubmed_docsum

In addition to reparing single strand DNA repair (HIV integration into cellular DNA), PARP also activates NFKB and a host of other enzymes.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/queryd.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&
dopt=Abstract&list_uids=16026317&itool=pubmed_docsum

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/queryd.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&
dopt=Abstract&list_uids=15504977&itool=pubmed_docsum

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/queryd.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&
dopt=Abstract&list_uids=15302869&itool=pubmed_docsum

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/queryd.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&
dopt=Abstract&list_uids=12675907&itool=pubmed_docsum

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/queryd.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&
dopt=Abstract&list_uids=12960163&itool=pubmed_docsum

In addition to the activation of NFKB, a major activator of the HIV and pro-inflammatory genes, PARP is now known to inhibit the activation of the PI-3K/AKT pathway.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/queryd.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&
dopt=Abstract&list_uids=16337154&itool=pubmed_docsum

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/queryd.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&
dopt=Abstract&list_uids=16115861&itool=pubmed_docsum

The PI-3K/AKT pathway is absolutely necessary for both CD4 and CD8 T cell growth, and the development of the CD4/CD8 T cell ratio which originates in the thymus.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/queryd.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&
dopt=Abstract&list_uids=12707323&itool=pubmed_docsum

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/queryd.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&
dopt=Abstract&list_uids=11745381&itool=pubmed_docsum

The last article is particularly important because it shows that CD8 cytotoxic T cells cannot be activated by class I histocompatibility antigens on accessory cells if the PI-3K/AKT pathway is inhibited.

Please recall from previous essays that the CD28 cofactor receptor in CD4/CD8 T cell activation stimulates PI-3K activity. This is an absolutely critical response for proper lymphocyte activation.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/queryd.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&
dopt=Abstract&list_uids=8164687&itool=pubmed_docsum

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/queryd.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&
dopt=Abstract&list_uids=8621607&itool=pubmed_docsum

In summary, nicotinamide, a commonly available, inexpensive form of niacin is capable of inhibiting PARP enzyme activity.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/queryd.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&
dopt=Abstract&list_uids=14512702&itool=pubmed_docsum

The inhibition of PARP is very significant for HIV infections.

1. PARP inhibitors block HIV DNA infection of newly infected cells, thereby inducing cell death in those cells.
2. PARP inhibitors block NFKB activity and the activation of HIV and pro-inflammatory genes.
3. PARP inhibitors activate the PI-3K/AKT pathway, resulting in T cell growth and the activation of NFAT and JNK, both activators of IL-2 and IL-12 synthesis. This leads to increased cell mediated immunity.
4. PARP inhibitors inhibit oxidative induced cell stress.

In summary, Adam took nicotinamide and NO ONE can argue with the success of his treatment protocol. Nicotinamide was a component of our first HIV treatment protocol, but I backed off from recommending it lately for lack of a good reason. NOW, I have a good reason.

Nicotinamide,AKA niacinamide, 2-3 grams a day in capsule form, should be combined with EGCG, vitamin D3, melatonin and lithium as a treatment for HIV infections. We are always looking for synergy in our treatment protocols and this group of natural medicines looks like a winner.

Stay tuned...

Grouppe Kurosawa, Medicine in the Public Interest
(http://www.grouppekurosawa.com)