Acetylsalicylic acid inhibition of the lipoxygenase pathway: Implications for HIV prevention

Background

1.5 million new HIV infections occurred in 2021, suggesting new prevention methods are needed. Inflammation increases the risk for HIV acquisition by attracting HIV target cells to the female genital tract (FGT). In a pilot study, acetylsalicylic acid (ASA/Aspirin) decreased the proportion of FGT HIV target cells by 35 %. However, the mechanism remains unknown.

Methods

Women from Nairobi, Kenya took low-dose ASA (81 mg) daily for 6-weeks. Free oxylipins in the plasma were quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectroscopy.

Results

Oxylipins from 9 fatty acid substrates were detected, with more than one analyte from 4 substrates reduced post-ASA. Summary analysis found ASA downregulated cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase but not cytochrome P450 activity with a lower n-6/n-3 oxylipin profile, reflecting reduced inflammation post-ASA.

Conclusions

Inflammation is associated with increased lipoxygenase activity and HIV risk. Our data suggests ASA reduces inflammation through downregulation of oxylipins. Understanding how ASA reduces inflammation may lead to novel HIV prevention approaches.