Analysis of Salivary Biomarkers and the Oral Microbiome in Individuals Using Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

• Grant number: 25/05019-9
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: March 01, 2026
• End date: February 28, 2029
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine - Medical Clinics
• Principal Investigator: Paulo Henrique Braz da Silva
• Grantee: Paulo Henrique Braz da Silva
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Odontologia (FO). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• City of the host institution: São Paulo
• Associated researchers: Bengt Olof Valter Hasséus ; Camila de Barros Gallo ; Camila Malta Romano ; Débora Pallos ; Dmitry José de Santana Sarmento ; Herculano da Silva Martinho ; Janete Dias Almeida ; José Angelo Lauletta Lindoso ; JUAN PABLO AITKEN SAAVEDRA ; Juliana Lucena Schussel ; Marília Trierveiler Martins ; Roger Junges ; Simone Giannecchini

Abstract

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) involves the use of antiretroviral drugs to reduce the risk of HIV infection. Research has indicated an increase in the incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), particularly bacterial ones, among individuals using PrEP. In this context, saliva emerges as a valuable biological fluid for identifying biomarkers, including microorganisms with potential infectivity. The method ofsaliva collection is accessible, rapid and minimally invasive, making it a promising option for diagnostic studies. This study aims to assess whether saliva samples can be effectively used for molecular diagnosis and monitoring of viral (e.g. HPV, mpox and herpesvirus) and bacterialSTIs (e.g. chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis) among PrEP users in São Paulo, Brazil. Both saliva and plasma samples will be analysed by using vibrational spectroscopy and focusing on in situ biochemical composition assessment through Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy.Additionally, inflammatory and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels will be quantified by using the multiplex high-sensitivity human cytokine plex kit (Luminex®, Millipore Corporation, Billerica,MA). Viral and bacterial DNA in saliva and plasma samples will be detected through real-time PCR. This study also encompasses analysis of the oral microbiome and virome, thus contributing to the development of effective management approaches for this population. Furthermore, it will help elucidate the composition and dynamics of viral excretion, assess the presence of STI- causing microorganisms and examine possible impacts on this environment. (AU)