HIV virology: implications for the pathogenesis of HIV infection

Infection by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) may result in a spectrum of disease ranging from asymptomatic seropositivity to the development of profound immunodeficiency. Features of the HIV life cycle may explain aspects of the pathogenesis of HIV-induced disease. The tropism of HIV for CD4+ cells of both lymphocytic and monocytic origin is of considerable importance in bringing about immune deficiency. The variability of the HIV envelope limits the ability of host-immune response to control the infection effectively. Finally, the ability of HIV to persist is latently integrated DNA in infected cells that can be reactivated by cellular signals responsible for the control of normal immune cell activation links HIV replication to normal host cell functions. This can help explain the chronic but progressive nature of the infection.