Effects of MS-8209, an amphotericin B derivative, on tumor necrosis factoralpha synthesis and human immunodeficiency virus replication in macrophages

Amphotericin B derivatives, such as MS-8209, have been evaluated as a thera peutic approach to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. We show th at MS-8209, like amphotericin B, increases tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF -alpha) mRNA expression and TNF-alpha production and consequently HN replic ation in human macrophages. These effects confirm the pharmacological risk associated with the administration of amphotericin B or its derivatives to HIV-infected patients.