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AIDS-associated retroviruses (ARV) can productively infect other cells besides human T helper cells
Abstract:
We have examined the host range of AIDS-associated retroviruses (ARV) that are known to infect human T cells of the helper subset. We have observed that the virus cannot infect fibroblast and epithelial cell lines of many different animal species. It is infectious and replicates efficiently in peripheral mononuclear cells (PMC) of chimpanzee and at low levels in baboon and rhesus monkey PMC. Most importantly, it has been found to replicate in established lines of human B cells, monocytes, and promyelocytes. This ability to infect these other cell types appears to be associated, in most cases, with the presence of the Leu 3 T helper cell antigen on the cell surface. Other mechanisms for virus infection, however, may be involved. The results suggest that ARV will be found in other cells of AIDS patients, besides T cells, and that these cells could be the reservoir for continual virus spread in the host. Variations in the replicative ability of ARV isolates in human cells have also been noted; they could reflect potentially important pathogenic differences among these human retroviruses.
Insights
AIDS-associated retroviruses (ARV) infects human T cells and can also replicate in chimpanzee, baboon, and rhesus monkey cells. This retrovirus also infects human B cells, monocytes, and promyelocytes, suggesting a wider host range in AIDS patients.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
Background:
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that primarily targets helper T cells.
- Understanding the host range of HIV and related retroviruses is crucial for developing effective treatments and prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the host range of AIDS-associated retroviruses (ARV) beyond human T cells.
- To identify potential cellular reservoirs for ARV in individuals with AIDS.
Main Methods:
- Infection assays using various animal and human cell lines, including peripheral mononuclear cells (PMC).
- Analysis of cell surface markers, specifically the Leu 3 T helper cell antigen.
Main Results:
- ARV demonstrated limited infectivity in animal fibroblast and epithelial cell lines.
- Efficient replication was observed in chimpanzee PMC, with lower levels in baboon and rhesus monkey PMC.
- ARV successfully replicated in human B cells, monocytes, and promyelocytes, often correlating with Leu 3 antigen presence.
Conclusions:
- ARV can infect a broader range of human cells than previously thought, including B cells and monocytes.
- These non-T cells may serve as viral reservoirs, contributing to continuous virus spread in AIDS patients.
- Variations in ARV replication across different human cell types may indicate pathogenic differences among viral isolates.