The HIV Reservoir in the Female Reproductive Tract.

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Immunology
• Reproductive Health

Background:

• Antiretroviral therapy (ART) effectively reduces HIV replication and plasma viral load.
• Persistent infectious HIV, known as the viral reservoir, remains integrated into host DNA during ART.
• This reservoir, including within the female reproductive tract (FRT), poses a challenge for HIV eradication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current data on the HIV viral reservoir and shedding within the FRT.
• To highlight the unique characteristics of the FRT that may influence HIV persistence and treatment response.
• To inform strategies aimed at curing HIV infection by addressing the FRT reservoir.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on HIV reservoir and shedding in the FRT.
• Analysis of the anatomical and physiological features of the FRT relevant to HIV persistence.
• Synthesis of findings in the context of potential curative interventions.

Main Results:

• HIV-infected cells and viral shedding are present at multiple sites within the FRT.
• The FRT possesses unique biological features (e.g., hormonal regulation, microbiome) that may impact the reservoir.
• Limited data exists on the FRT reservoir compared to other body sites.

Conclusions:

• The FRT harbors a persistent HIV reservoir that may respond differently to curative therapies.
• Further research into the FRT HIV reservoir is essential for developing successful HIV cure strategies.
• Targeting the FRT reservoir is a critical consideration for achieving a functional HIV cure.