Nonhuman primate models of NeuroAIDS

Area of Science:

• Neurovirology
• Neuroinflammation
• Immunology

Background:

• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection can lead to severe neurological complications, notably HIV-associated dementia (HAD).
• HIV encephalitis (HIVE) is the pathological basis of HAD, involving characteristic brain changes like giant cell formation, microglial nodules, astrocytosis, and neuronal loss.
• Direct pathological study of HAD progression in humans is limited to end-stage disease observations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the knowledge gap in understanding HIV-associated neuropathology and neuroinflammation.
• To highlight the utility of animal models in studying the progression of HIV-induced neurological disorders.
• To compare the effectiveness of Simian Immunodeficiency Virus (SIV) and Simian/Human Immunodeficiency Virus (SHIV) macaque models.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing Simian Immunodeficiency Virus (SIV) macaque models.
• Employing chimeric Simian/Human Immunodeficiency Virus (SHIV) macaque models.
• Comparing neuropathological outcomes and disease progression between SIV and SHIV models.

Main Results:

• Both SIV and SHIV macaque models demonstrate neuroinvasion and neuropathology consistent with human HIV syndromes.
• Distinct differences in pathogenesis and disease progression exist between SIV and SHIV models.
• These models provide valuable insights into HIV-associated neuropathology.

Conclusions:

• SIV and SHIV macaque models are essential tools for neurovirology research on HIV-associated neurological complications.
• Understanding the differences between SIV and SHIV models is key to effectively studying HIV-associated neuropathology.
• Animal models are indispensable for advancing knowledge on neuroinflammation and neurocognitive disorders in HIV infection.