Enhanced oxidative stress and increased mitochondrial mass during Efavirenz-induced apoptosis in human hepatic cells

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Efavirenz (EFV) is widely used in the treatment of HIV-1 infection. Though highly efficient, there is growing concern about EFV-related side effects, the molecular basis of which remains elusive. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH In vitro studies were performed to address the effect of clinically relevant concentrations of EFV (10, 25 and 50 mu M) on human hepatic cells. KEY RESULTS Cellular proliferation and viability were reduced in a concentration-dependent manner. Analyses of the cell cycle and several cell death parameters (chromatin condensation, phosphatidylserine exteriorization, mitochondrial proapoptotic protein translocation and caspase activation) revealed that EFV tr…