Mesenchymal Stromal Cells: a Possible Reservoir for HIV-1?

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Immunology
• Stem Cell Biology

Background:

• Antiretroviral therapy (ART) suppresses HIV-1 but does not eliminate viral reservoirs.
• Cellular reservoirs cause viral rebound and hinder HIV-1 cure strategies.
• Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) are under investigation as potential HIV-1 reservoirs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing literature on MSCs' potential role in the HIV-1 reservoir.
• To assess evidence for MSCs harboring latent HIV-1.
• To identify knowledge gaps for future research on HIV-1 persistence.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating MSCs and HIV-1.
• Analysis of MSC expression of HIV-1 entry receptors and co-receptors.
• Evaluation of studies on HIV-1 and HIV-1 protein effects on MSC properties.

Main Results:

• MSCs express receptors and co-receptors for HIV-1 entry, with variable expression levels.
• In vitro exposure to HIV-1 alters MSC proliferation and differentiation.
• Studies confirming latent integrated proviral DNA in MSCs are lacking.

Conclusions:

• MSCs show potential to contribute to the HIV-1 reservoir.
• Definitive proof of MSCs as an HIV-1 reservoir requires further investigation.
• MSCs might play a role in HIV-1 persistence in vasculature, adipose tissue, and bone marrow.