Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 18, 2026
07:32
Phagosome Migration and Velocity Measured in Live Primary Human Macrophages Infected with HIV-1
Published on: September 5, 2016
The macrophage: the intersection between HIV infection and atherosclerosis
Suzanne M Crowe1, Clare L V Westhorpe, Nigora Mukhamedova
1Centre for Virology, Macfarlane Burnet Institute for Medical Research and Public Health, Melbourne 3004, Australia. crowe@burnet.edu.au
Journal of Leukocyte Biology
|December 3, 2009
Summary
HIV infection increases coronary artery disease (CAD) risk due to inflammation and altered cholesterol metabolism. Monocytes, particularly the CD14+/CD16+ subpopulation, are key players in HIV-related CAD pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Infectious Disease Immunology
- Molecular Medicine
Background:
- HIV infection is linked to accelerated coronary artery disease (CAD).
- Mechanisms include chronic inflammation, microbial translocation, and antiretroviral therapy effects.
- Monocytes/macrophages are central to atherosclerosis and HIV-related inflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of monocytes/macrophages in HIV-related CAD.
- To discuss the impact of inflammation and cholesterol metabolism in this context.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on HIV, CAD, monocytes, inflammation, and cholesterol metabolism.
- Analysis of current research on pathogenic mechanisms.
Main Results:
- HIV induces chronic immune activation and inflammation, contributing to CAD.
- HIV and its treatments can directly affect macrophage cholesterol metabolism.
- The CD14+/CD16+ monocyte subset is highly susceptible to HIV and implicated in CAD.
Conclusions:
- Monocytes/macrophages are critical in the pathogenesis of HIV-associated CAD.
- Inflammation and dysregulated cholesterol metabolism are key drivers of HIV-related cardiovascular complications.
Related Concept Videos
01:38Inflammation
Overview
01:30Atherosclerosis I: Introduction
Atherosclerosis is a progressive disorder characterized by the buildup of plaques on the arterial inner wall, causing them to narrow and harden over time. These plaques comprise lipids, calcium, blood components, carbohydrates, and fibrous tissue. The process primarily affects the intima of large and medium-sized arteries, reducing blood flow in any artery.Etiology and risk factorsThe cause of atherosclerosis is multifactorial, involving a complex interplay among endothelial injury, lipid...
01:25Immune Surveillance by NK Cells and Phagocytes
Immune surveillance is an integral part of the innate immune system, involving the continuous monitoring of peripheral tissues to detect and respond to pathogens, infected cells, or cancerous cells. This surveillance is conducted primarily by natural killer (NK) cells and phagocytes, which employ distinct but complementary mechanisms to identify and eliminate threats.
Natural Killer Cells: The Fast Responders
NK cells are large granular lymphocytes found in the blood and lymphatic system. These...
Natural Killer Cells: The Fast Responders
NK cells are large granular lymphocytes found in the blood and lymphatic system. These...