Progress and prospects in HIV/AIDS pathogenicity research using rhesus macaque models: from SHIV model development to...

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Immunology
• Primatology

Background:

• Simian-Human Immunodeficiency Virus (SHIV) models are crucial for studying Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) pathogenesis.
• Rhesus macaques serve as a key animal model for HIV/AIDS research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the development and application of SHIV models in rhesus macaques by our research group from 2001-2023.
• To highlight contributions to HIV/AIDS research, pathogenesis understanding, and therapeutic development.

Main Methods:

• Development and characterization of molecular clones of SHIV with varying pathogenicities.
• Investigation of CD4+ T cell depletion mechanisms in the small intestine during SHIV infection.
• Creation of R5-tropic SHIV models to better simulate natural HIV infection.

Main Results:

• Established diverse SHIV models with distinct pathogenic profiles.
• Elucidated mechanisms of small intestinal CD4+ T cell depletion.
• Developed models for studying neutralizing antibody induction and resistance.

Conclusions:

• Significant advancements in HIV/AIDS research through SHIV model development.
• Enhanced understanding of HIV pathogenicity and disease progression.
• Provided platforms for developing novel vaccines and therapeutics against HIV/AIDS.