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Updated: May 28, 2026
07:35
Generation of Human Monocyte-derived Dendritic Cells from Whole Blood
Published on: December 24, 2016
Dendritic Cells and HIV-1 Trans-Infection
1Department of Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.
Viruses
|October 14, 2011
Summary
Dendritic cells transmit infectious HIV-1 to CD4 T cells via an infectious synapse, a process called trans-infection. This mechanism enhances T cell infection and viral spread, contributing to HIV-1 disease progression.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Dendritic cells (DCs) are crucial for initiating adaptive immune responses.
- DCs present antigens to T cells via the immunological synapse.
- DCs can also transfer intact, infectious Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1) to CD4 T cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent data on the mechanisms of HIV-1 trans-infection.
- To provide context for the role of trans-infection in HIV-1 disease.
Main Methods:
- Review of current scientific literature on DC-mediated HIV-1 transmission.
- Analysis of the immunological synapse and infectious synapse formation.
- Discussion of in vitro and in vivo studies on trans-infection.
Main Results:
- HIV-1 trans-infection occurs independently of viral replication.
- Trans-infection significantly enhances CD4 T cell infection in vitro.
- The infectious synapse facilitates efficient HIV-1 transfer from DCs to T cells.
Conclusions:
- HIV-1 trans-infection is a significant mechanism for viral spread.
- This process contributes to increased CD4 T cell depletion in HIV-1 infection.
- Understanding trans-infection mechanisms is vital for therapeutic strategies against HIV-1 disease.
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