Differential use of CCR5 versus CXCR4 by HIV-1: Pathogenic, Translational and Clinical Open Questions
2011

HIV-1 Co-Receptor Use and Replication in CD4+ T Lymphocytes

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Mariani Samanta A, Vicenzi Elisa, Poli Guido

Primary Institution: San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy

Hypothesis

The asymmetry in HIV-1 co-receptor use is influenced not only by the availability of CCR5 and CXCR4 but also by their signaling roles in viral replication.

Conclusion

R5 viruses replicate more efficiently than X4 viruses in CD4+ T cells under homeostatic conditions, but prolonged T cell activation can shift the balance in favor of X4 viruses.

Supporting Evidence

  • R5 viruses are responsible for inter-individual transmission and sustaining the HIV pandemic.
  • CXCR4-using viruses emerge in about 50% of individuals in the late stage of HIV disease.
  • R5 viruses replicate more efficiently than X4 viruses in primary CD4+ T cells under low activation conditions.

Takeaway

HIV-1 uses two helpers to enter cells, and how well it spreads depends on which helper is available and how the cells are activated.

Methodology

The article reviews findings related to HIV-1 co-receptor signaling and its impact on viral replication in CD4+ T lymphocytes.

Limitations

The study does not provide a definitive model explaining the differential replication capacities of R5 and X4 viruses.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1479-5876-9-S1-S8

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