Abstract In the context of simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection, this editorial commentary minireview addresses the roles of galectin-3, galectin-9, and interleukin-18 in monocyte activation and turnover. It places particular emphasis on their potential consequences for the emergence of cardiac pathology and encephalitis in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive individuals. The intricate relationship between these proteins and monocyte activation in HIV/SIV pathogenesis is examined, along with their correlation with neurocognitive impairment and cardiovascular illness. Strategies to prevent or treat these diseases in HIV-positive persons include targeted treatments and personalized medicine approaches that target these biomarkers and pathways.
Daungsupawong et al. (2025) studied this question.