Liposomes as Carriers for the Delivery of Efavirenz in Combination with Glutathione—An Approach to Combat Opportunistic Infections

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals display an enhanced production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This reduction of antioxidant capacity in host tissues has been related to the decrease in total levels of ROS scavengers such as glutathione (GSH). Prevention of opportunistic infections due to a weakened immune system is becoming a key strategy along with HIV elimination. Research in these directions is clearly warranted, especially a combination of antiretrovirals and antioxidants to ameliorate oxidative stress, improve intracellular uptake and target viral reservoirs. Hence, we aimed to formulate liposomes loaded with the antiretroviral drug efavirenz (EFA) in the presence of glutathione, as these carriers can be engineered to enhance the ability to reach the target reservoirs. The goal of the present work was to investigate the intracellular uptake of EFA-loaded liposome (with and without GSH) by human monocytic leukemia cells (THP-1 cells) and examine cell viability and ROS scavenging activity. Results obtained provided significant data as follows: (i) treatment with EFA and GSH combination could enhance the uptake and reduce cytotoxicity; (ii) encapsulation of EFA into liposomes increased its levels in the macrophages, which was further enhanced in the presence of GSH; (iii) delivery of EFA in the presence of GSH quenched the intracellular ROS, which was significantly higher when delivered via liposomes. Data revealed that a combination of EFA and GSH encompasses advantages; hence, GSH supplementation could be a safe and cost-effective treatment to slow the development of HIV infection and produce an immune-enhancing effect.