Unveiling the basis of antiretroviral therapy-induced osteopenia: the effects of Dolutegravir, Darunavir and Atazanavir on osteogenesis

Objectives: Osteopenia is frequent in HIV-infected patients treated with antiretroviral therapy (ART) and has been linked to increased osteoclastogenesis. Little is known about the effects of ART on osteogenesis. Design: We investigated the effect on human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC) and osteoblasts of Darunavir and Dolutegravir, the most highly used as anchor drugs within a three-drug regimen, and Atazanavir, which was widely utilized in the past. Results: We found that Atazanavir and Dolutegravir delay the osteogenic differentiation of hMSC, impair the activity of osteoblasts and inhibit their conversion into osteocytes, whereas Darunavir exerts no effect. Conclusion: Atazanavir and Dolutegravir impair osteogenesis. It is essential to diagnose impaired osteogenesis early and to devise effective therapeutic interventions to preserve bone health in ART-treated HIV patients, putting it in the context of a correct antiretroviral combination.