Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2026

Conformational Evaluation of HIV-1 Trimeric Envelope Glycoproteins Using a Cell-based ELISA Assay
Published on: September 14, 2014
Complement and antibodies: a dangerous liaison in HIV infection?
Heribert Stoiber1, Anna Soederholm, Doris Wilflingseder
1Department Hygiene and Microbiology, Innsbruck Medical University, Fritz-Preglstr. 3, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria. hygiene@i-med.ac.at
Abstract:
Due to ongoing recombination and mutations, HIV permanently escapes from neutralizing antibody (nAb) responses of the host. By the masking of epitopes or shedding of gp120, HIV-1 further impedes an efficient neutralization by Abs. Therefore, nAbs responses of the host are chasing behind a rapidly evolving virus and mainly non-neutralizing antibodies (non-nAbs) are present in the host. At the same time, complement deposition on immune-complexed HIV may counteract the immune response by enhancing the infection. On the other hand, complement-mediated lysis is a putative effector mechanism to control viral replication. Here we review the complex interplay between complement, neutralizing and non-neutralizing Abs during HIV infection and discuss the contribution of Abs and complement in blocking versus enhancing the course of infection.
Related Concept Videos
Antibody Actions
Neutralization
Antibodies can bind to pathogens, preventing them from infecting host cells. This process...
Humoral Immune Responses
Complement System
Immune Response Against Viral Pathogens
NK Cells
NK cells are a crucial part of our innate immune system, acting as the first line of defense against viral infections. These cells can recognize and kill infected cells without prior exposure to the virus, effectively slowing down the spread of infection. Additionally, NK cells produce proinflammatory...
Affinity and Avidity
Hypersensitivity Reactions: Cytolytic Reactions

