HIV-1 induces telomerase activity in monocyte-derived macrophages, possibly safeguarding one of its reservoirs.

ABSTRACT: Monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) are widely distributed in all tissues and organs, including the central nervous system, where they represent the main part of HIV-infected cells. In contrast to activated CD4(+) T lymphocytes, MDM are resistant to cytopathic effects and survive HIV infection for a long period of time. The molecular mechanisms of how HIV is able to persist in macrophages are not fully elucidated yet. In this context, we have studied the effect of in vitro HIV-1 infection on telomerase activity (TA), telomere length, and DNA damage. Infection resulted in a significant induction of TA. This increase was directly proportional to the efficacy of HIV infection and was found in both nuclear and cytoplasmic extracts, while neither UV light-inactivated HIV nor exogenous addition o

SUBMITTER: Reynoso R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3457250 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature