ABSTRACT
Infection with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (hereafter referred to as HIV) results in a progressive impairment of immune function, ultimately leading to opportunistic infections and malignancies of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). The fundamental immunologic abnormality is a progressive impairment of the number and functions of CD4+ lymphocytes. Because the CD4+ lymphocytes are important immune regulatory cells, various immune functions are affected. In recent years, several reports have suggested that impaired antioxidant defense plays a role in the immunopathogenesis of HIV infection. 1–5 Several investigators have suggested that clinical trials with antioxidants, in particular with glutathione replenishing drugs, should be carried out. 6–9
