HSV-2 infection of dendritic cells amplifies a highly susceptible HIV-1 cell target.

ABSTRACT: Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) increases the risk of HIV-1 infection and, although several reports describe the interaction between these two viruses, the exact mechanism for this increased susceptibility remains unclear. Dendritic cells (DCs) at the site of entry of HSV-2 and HIV-1 contribute to viral spread in the mucosa. Specialized DCs present in the gut-associated lymphoid tissues produce retinoic acid (RA), an important immunomodulator, able to influence HIV-1 replication and a key mediator of integrin α₄β₇ on lymphocytes. α₄β₇ can be engaged by HIV-1 on the cell-surface and CD4⁺ T cells expressing high levels of this integrin (α₄β₇ (high)) are particularly susceptible to HIV-1 infection. Herein we provide in-vivo data in macaques showing an increased percentage of α₄β₇ (high) C

SUBMITTER: Martinelli E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3128120 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature