Changes in mesenteric lymph node T cell phenotype and B and T cell homing properties after murine AIDS infection

We studied MLN (mesenteric lymph nodes) T cell phenotype and MLN T and B cells homing properties after murine AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) infection. Our results showed an increase in the percentage of CD4+ cells expressing CD44, CD54 and LPAM-1. There was also a decrease in the proportion of CD8+ cells but an increase in the percentage of CD8+ CD54+ cells. An increased proportion of CD11b+ (Mac1) cells suggested the recruitment of macrophages. Murine AIDS MLN cells labeled with 125I-UDR migrated back to the MLN but did not preferentially migrate to the ILP (intestinal lamina propria). Simultaneous staining for BRDU and IgA confirmed the inability of murine AIDS MLN cells to home to the ILP. These data indicate that murine AIDS infection altered the mucosal immune system while modifying MLN T cell phenotype and MLN T and B cells migratory properties.