HIV-1 infection and CD4 T cell depletion in the humanized Rag2-/-γc-/- (RAG-hu) mouse model
2006
HIV-1 Infection and CD4 T Cell Depletion in a New Mouse Model
Sample size: 16
publication
Evidence: high
Author Information
Author(s): Berges Bradford K, Wheat William H, Palmer Brent E, Connick Elizabeth, Akkina Ramesh
Primary Institution: Colorado State University
Hypothesis
Can the new humanized Rag2-/-γc-/- mouse model sustain long-term HIV-1 infection and mimic human HIV pathogenesis?
Conclusion
The RAG-hu mouse model can support chronic HIV-1 infection and CD4 T cell depletion, reflecting key aspects of HIV pathogenesis in humans.
Supporting Evidence
- RAG-hu mice can be productively infected by both X4 and R5 tropic HIV-1 strains.
- Viremia in RAG-hu mice lasts for at least 30 weeks.
- HIV-1 infection leads to significant CD4 T cell depletion in these mice.
Takeaway
Scientists created a special mouse that can get HIV just like humans do, helping them study the disease better.
Methodology
RAG-hu mice were infected with HIV-1 and monitored for viral load and CD4 T cell levels over time.
Limitations
The study is limited by the variability in human cell engraftment among individual mice.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website