Safety, Immunovirologic, and Central Nervous System Effects of PD-1 Inhibition in People With HIV Without Malignancy.

In 30 seconds

This phase 1 nonrandomized clinical trial evaluated the safety and effects of a single dose of pembrolizumab in 6 individuals with virally suppressed HIV. The study found that 29 adverse events occurred, all grade 1 or 2, with no serious events reported. Immune responses and viral loads remained unchanged, although transient CSF viral increases were noted in 2 participants.

Key findings

• 29 adverse events were reported, all classified as grade 1 or 2.
• No serious adverse events occurred during the study.
• HIV immune responses and viral loads remained unchanged after treatment.
• Transient CSF viral increases were observed in 2 participants.

Why it matters

Understanding the safety profile of PD-1 inhibitors like pembrolizumab in HIV patients is crucial as it may pave the way for future therapeutic strategies targeting chronic infections without malignancy.