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

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