Immunopathogenic mechanisms in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection

Article Abstract:

The disease AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) results from the infection of the immune system by HIV, human immunodeficiency virus. HIV is unique among viruses in that it insinuates itself into the human immune system and converts normal immune functions to its own needs for reproduction, at the same time weakening the immune system's ability to ward off other types of infection. Among the cells in the immune system necessary for the prevention of other infections is the T4 lymphocyte, a particular white blood cell. HIV induces significant loss of this cell population. Lymphocytes that have the molecule known as CD4+ on their surfaces are present in far smaller quantities in the bloodstreams of patients with full-blown AIDS than in patients who do not have symptoms, but test positive for antibodies to the virus (an indication of HIV infection). The number of HIV virus cells rises in proportion to the loss of CD4+ cells. Interestingly, infection with the AIDS virus results in profound stimulation of the human immune system, but for as yet unknown reasons, the immune system fails to neutralize the virus sufficiently to prevent the onset of the disease AIDS. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

AIDS (Disease)

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NIH conference: development and evaluation of a vaccine for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection

Article Abstract:

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is impairs the immune system of humans and causes Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Scientific, logistical and ethical issues complicate the development of a safe and effective vaccine for infection with HIV. A lack of understanding of immunity to HIV, an incomplete understanding of the development of the disease and the lack of an adequate and convenient animal model for studying HIV infection are some of the complicating factors. The HIV virus can be transmitted either cell-free or with cells. A protective immune response against HIV will likely require both a humoral (chemical) and cell-mediated response (e.g., a white blood cell involved with detection and elimination of the virus). Thus far chimpanzees have proven to be the only suitable animal model of the infection. The development of a small animal model will greatly facilitate the ability to test vaccines as they become available.

Research, Prevention, AIDS vaccines

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Immunopathogenic mechanisms of HIV infection

Article Abstract:

HIV infection may progress in a similar way in most patients, but the immune systems of some patients may resist disease progression. HIV spreads quickly shortly after the initial infection. This initial phase manifests itself with symptoms such as fever, sore throat, rash, swollen lymph glands, and muscle aches in a majority of infected patients. CD8+ T cell levels may increase and may influence disease progression, while cytokines, which are immune system chemicals, may control the amount of HIV in tissues. CD4+ T cell levels decrease as HIV disease progresses, perhaps because the functioning of bone marrow, the thymus gland, or lymphoid tissue is compromised. HIV disease may not progress in a small number of HIV-infected patients. These patients may have stronger immune systems or were infected with a weaker virus.

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