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Updated: Apr 11, 2026
Phagosome Migration and Velocity Measured in Live Primary Human Macrophages Infected with HIV-1
Published on: September 5, 2016
The macrophage: a therapeutic target in HIV-1 infection
1Department of Virology, UPRES EA4266 Pathogens & Inflammation, University of Franche-Comte, SFR FED 4234, F-25030 Besançon, France.
Abstract:
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is still a serious global health concern responsible for more than 25 million deaths in last three decades. More than 34 million people are living with HIV infection. Macrophages and CD4+ T cells are the principal targets of HIV-1. The pathogenesis of HIV-1 takes different routes in macrophages and CD4+ T cells. Macrophages are resistant to the cytopathic effect of HIV-1 and produce virus for longer periods of time. In addition, macrophages being present in every organ system thus can disseminate virus to the different anatomical sites leading to the formation of viral sanctuaries. Complete cure of HIV-1 needs better understanding of viral pathogenesis in these reservoirs and implementation of knowledge into robust therapeutic products. In this review we will focus on the unique relationship between HIV-1 and macrophages. Furthermore, we will describe how successful antiretroviral therapy (ART) is in suppressing HIV and novel molecular and cellular strategies against HIV-1 in macrophages.
Insights
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infects macrophages and CD4+ T cells, creating viral sanctuaries. Understanding HIV pathogenesis in macrophages is key to developing new therapies beyond current antiretroviral therapy (ART).
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains a significant global health issue, causing millions of deaths and affecting millions worldwide.
- Macrophages and CD4+ T cells are primary targets of HIV-1, with distinct pathogenic pathways in each cell type.
- Macrophages exhibit resistance to HIV-1's cytopathic effects, leading to prolonged viral production and dissemination, establishing viral sanctuaries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the unique relationship between HIV-1 and macrophages.
- To explore the role of macrophages in HIV-1 pathogenesis and viral reservoirs.
- To discuss novel molecular and cellular strategies targeting HIV-1 in macrophages.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on HIV-1 pathogenesis.
- Analysis of the distinct interactions between HIV-1 and macrophages versus CD4+ T cells.
- Examination of current antiretroviral therapy (ART) efficacy and limitations.
Main Results:
- Macrophages serve as persistent reservoirs for HIV-1 due to their resistance to viral cytopathic effects.
- Macrophages facilitate viral dissemination throughout the body, contributing to the formation of sanctuaries.
- Current ART effectively suppresses HIV replication but does not eliminate these reservoirs.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive understanding of HIV-1 pathogenesis within macrophage reservoirs is essential for achieving a complete cure.
- Novel therapeutic strategies focusing on macrophages are needed to complement existing ART.
- Targeting macrophages offers a promising avenue for developing more robust HIV-1 treatments.
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