Hypothalamic Digoxin, Hemispheric Dominance and the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome

<i>Objectives:</i> Hypothalamic digoxin, an isoprenoidal metabolite, is an endogenous regulator of membrane Na⁺-K⁺ ATPase activity, immune activation and synaptic neurotransmission. The objective of this study was to assess the role of hypothalamic digoxin and hemispheric dominance in the pathogenesis of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and in the genesis of sexual orientation. <i>Methods:</i> The isoprenoid-pathway-related cascade – (i) isoprenoidal metabolites – digoxin, dolichol and ubiquinone, (ii) tryptophan/tyrosine catabolic patterns, (iii) glycoconjugate metabolism, (iv) free radical metabolism and (v) membrane composition were assessed in AIDS (CDC stage – group IV – subgroup C), individuals with differing hemispheric dominance as well as in individuals with differing sexual orientation. Statistical analysis was done by Student’s t test with modified degrees of freedom. <i>Results:</i> The HMG CoA reductase activity was increased with increased digoxin and dolichol levels and reduced ubiquinone levels in AIDS. The membrane Na⁺-K⁺ ATPase activity and serum magnesium levels were reduced. The tryptophan catabolites (serotonin, quinolinic acid, nicotine and strychnine) were increased and the tyrosine catabolites (morphine, dopamine and noradrenaline) were reduced. The serum glycoconjugate metabolites were increased and lysosomal stability was reduced in AIDS. There was reduced incorporation of glycoconjugates into membranes and an increased membrane cholesterol:phospholipid ratio. Lipid peroxidation products and NO were increased while free radical scavenging enzymes and reduced glutathione were reduced. The biochemical patterns obtained in AIDS correlated with those obtained in right-hemispheric dominance and homosexuals/bisexual states. <i>Conclusions:</i> Hypothalamic digoxin and right-hemispheric dominance is important in the predisposition to AIDS as well as homosexual/bisexual states.