Dendritic cells in progression and pathology of HIV infection

Trends Immunol. 2014 Mar;35(3):114-22. doi: 10.1016/j.it.2013.10.003. Epub 2013 Nov 15.

Abstract

Although the major targets of HIV infection are CD4⁺ T cells, dendritic cells (DCs) represent a crucial subset in HIV infection because they influence viral transmission and target cell infection and presentation of HIV antigens. DCs are potent antigen-presenting cells that can modulate antiviral immune responses. Through secretion of inflammatory cytokines and interferons (IFNs), DCs also alter T cell proliferation and differentiation, participating in the immune dysregulation characteristic of chronic HIV infection. Their wide distribution in close proximity with the mucosal epithelia makes them one of the first cell types to encounter HIV during sexual transmission. We discuss here the multiple roles that DCs play at different stages of HIV infection, emphasizing their relevance to HIV pathology and progression.

Keywords: Dendritic; HIV; Immune activation; Infection; Pathogenesis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antigen Presentation / immunology
  • Dendritic Cells / immunology*
  • Dendritic Cells / virology*
  • Disease Progression
  • HIV Infections / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Lymphocyte Activation / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes / virology