Role of Apoptosis in HIV Pathogenesis

The apoptotic pathway is an important cell death pathway that contributes to the maintenance of homeostasis in living systems. However, variations in apoptosis have been linked to many diseases such as cancers and chronic infections. The HIV infection has contributed to increase mortality and morbidity worldwide, predominantly through the induction of gradual depletion of CD4+ T cells. The induction and mediation of both the intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways are crucial in HIV pathogenesis and intracellular survival. Consequently, a deep molecular understanding of how apoptosis is induced and modulated in HIV-mediated CD4+ T cell depletion is paramount, as this can lead to new portals of therapeutic intervention and control.