Review on the alteration of gut microbiota: the role of HIV infection and old age.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, results in gut microbiota alteration and this have association with the immune activation and chronic inflammation. Gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is a primary site of viral replication and thus HIV-induced loss of T-helper (Th) cells in the gut causes impairments in intestinal barriers resulting in disruptions in intestinal immunity and precipitating into gut dysbiosis. Here we show that late HIV diagnosis can negatively affect the immunological, virological, and clinical prognosis of the patients with its higher implication at an older age. Furthermore, the review indicates antiretroviral therapy (ART) to have shown to effect the gut microbiota. We discussed the use of probiotics and prebiotics that have been indicated to play a promising role in reversing gut microbiota alteration in HIV patients. Though there are several studies reported as such alterations in gut microbiota concerning HIV infection, there is a need to provide comprehend updates. It is; therefore, the objective of this review is to present most recently available evidences on alteration of gut microbiota among HIV patients. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Key words: HIV, AIDS, Gut microbiota, late diagnosis, old age, ART, Probiotics, Prebiotics.