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Simultaneous cell-to-cell transmission of human immunodeficiency virus to multiple targets through polysynapses

Dominika Rudnicka1, Jérôme Feldmann, Françoise Porrot

  • 1Department of Virology, Virus and Immunity Unit, Institut Pasteur, URA CNRS 3015, Paris Cedex 15, France.

Journal of Virology
|April 17, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) spreads efficiently via cell-to-cell contacts, including newly identified "polysynapses." These structures facilitate rapid viral growth and immune evasion in infected individuals.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) spreads between cells through various contact structures.
  • Understanding these transmission routes is crucial for controlling viral spread and immune escape.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To quantify and characterize cell-to-cell contact modes for HIV-1 propagation in lymphocytes.
  • To investigate the role of novel structures called polysynapses in viral transmission.

Main Methods:

  • Quantification and characterization of cell-to-cell contacts in lymphocytes.
  • Analysis of HIV Gag protein organization and colocalization with cellular markers at contact sites.
  • Investigation of the role of LFA-1 adhesion molecule in polysynapse formation.

Main Results:

  • Viral transmission occurs predominantly through virological synapses (VS) and polysynapses.
  • Polysynapses are rosette-like structures enabling simultaneous HIV clustering and transfer to multiple cells.
  • HIV Gag proteins form ring-like structures at intercellular contacts, independent of the microtubule organizing center.
  • LFA-1 enhances polysynapse formation, facilitating viral replication.

Conclusions:

  • Polysynapses represent an underestimated mode of HIV-1 transfer.
  • These structures can promote exponential viral growth and immune system evasion in infected individuals.

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