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Editor's Commentary for Special Issue: "The Role of Macrophages in HIV Persistence"
1Department of Neuroscience, Temple University School of Medicine, 3500 North Broad Street, MERB 755, Philadelphia, PA, 19140, USA. burdot@temple.edu.
Abstract:
Macrophages as reservoirs for persistent HIV infection has gained renewed importance, with an intense research focus dedicated to eradication strategies. Clearance of both latent and productive HIV from these important reservoirs is essential for successful eradication. This spe cial theme issue contains 11 papers, including 6 Invited Reviews, 1 Brief Report and 4 Original Articles, that focus on the various aspects of the macrophage as pertains to HIV persistence, latency and cure. These topics include: functional latency of macrophages and microglia, the link between peripheral monocytes and pathogenesis, macrophages as sources of HIV RNA and DNA in virally suppressed patients, brain imaging of neuroinflammation, macrophages as drug delivery vehicles, therapeutic strategies of infected macrophages for cure, and the role of drugs of abuse in enhancing macrophage viral persistence.
Insights
Macrophages are key reservoirs for persistent HIV infection. New research explores strategies to clear latent and active HIV from these cells for effective eradication and potential cure.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Macrophages are critical reservoirs for persistent human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, necessitating novel eradication strategies.
- Understanding HIV persistence in macrophages is essential for developing effective cure interventions.
Discussion:
- This special issue examines macrophages in HIV persistence, latency, and cure, covering topics like functional latency in macrophages and microglia.
- It explores the link between peripheral monocytes and HIV pathogenesis, and macrophages as sources of HIV RNA and DNA in virally suppressed individuals.
- Discussions include brain imaging of neuroinflammation, macrophages as drug delivery vehicles, and the impact of drug abuse on viral persistence.
Key Insights:
- Macrophages harbor latent and productive HIV, complicating eradication efforts.
- Therapeutic strategies targeting infected macrophages are crucial for achieving an HIV cure.
- Neuroinflammation and the role of monocytes in pathogenesis are significant considerations.
Outlook:
- Future research should focus on clearing HIV from macrophage reservoirs.
- Developing targeted therapies and drug delivery systems using macrophages holds promise.
- Addressing the impact of co-factors like drug abuse is vital for comprehensive HIV cure strategies.