Stem cells and immune reconstitution in AIDS

The hematopoietic system generally has reserve sufficient to tolerate significant insult and regenerative capacity to overcome most damage due to infectious agents. However, HIV infection results in a progressive decline in hematopoietic function and even in the context of potent, anti-retroviral therapy is able to only incompletely reconstitute immune function. The ability of the immune system to respond to HIV itself remains compromised, a defect that leaves infected individuals with a lifelong dependence on medications. The capability of stem cells and the thymus to restore function and their limitations in the context of HIV infection are discussed in this review.