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Langerhans cells and HIV infection

G Zambruno1, A Giannetti, U Bertazzoni

  • 1Istituto Dermopatico dell' Immacolata, IRCCS, Roma, Italy.

Immunology Today
|November 1, 1995
PubMed

Insights

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) productively infects epidermal Langerhans cells (LCs). These cells may serve as an initial target for sexual transmission and a reservoir for ongoing T-cell infection.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Virology
  • Dermatology

Background:

  • Epidermal Langerhans cells (LCs) are immune cells found in the skin.
  • Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) establishes infection in various immune cells.
  • The role of LCs in HIV-1 pathogenesis, particularly in early transmission, requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the susceptibility of epidermal Langerhans cells (LCs) to HIV-1 infection.
  • To explore the potential role of LCs in the sexual transmission of HIV-1.
  • To determine if LCs can act as a reservoir for HIV-1 and contribute to T-cell infection.

Main Methods:

  • Isolation and characterization of epidermal Langerhans cells (LCs) from HIV-1 infected individuals.
  • In vitro infection of normal LCs with HIV.
  • Analysis of HIV-1 proviral DNA and RNA within infected LCs.
  • Assessment of HIV antigen presentation by LCs to helper T cells.

Main Results:

  • Epidermal LCs from HIV-1 infected individuals harbor viral DNA and RNA, indicating productive infection in vivo.
  • Normal LCs can be infected by HIV in vitro.
  • Infected LCs can present HIV antigens to T cells, potentially initiating an immune response.
  • LCs in genital mucosa may be early targets of HIV following sexual contact.

Conclusions:

  • Epidermal Langerhans cells (LCs) are productively infected by HIV-1 in vivo.
  • LCs play a potential role in the sexual transmission of HIV-1 by infecting T cells.
  • LCs may serve as a viral reservoir, facilitating sustained T-cell infection and immune priming to HIV antigens.

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