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Fusion as a mediator of cytolysis in mixtures of uninfected CD4/sup +/ lymphocytes and cells infected by human immunodeficiency virus

Journal Article · · Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A.; (United States)
The authors describe an unusual type of cytopathology in which uninfected CD4/sup +/ (helper/inducer) cells (cells expressing the human leukocyte antigen CD4) interact with cells persistently infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Prior antigenic stimulation was not required, since CD4/sup +/ cells taken either from healthy persons without anti-HIV antibodies or from individuals with anti-HIV antibodies were capable in inducing cytolysis. Neither CD8/sup +/ (suppressor/cytotoxic) nor CD16/sup +/ (natural killer) cells mediated the reaction. Light microscopic and autoradiographic studies revealed that, prior to cytolysis, multinucleated giant cells were formed from fusions between HIV-infected cells and large numbers of uninfected CD4/sup +/ lymphocytes. These data may explain the paradox that exists in vivo in which a dramatic depletion of CD4/sup +/ lymphocytes occurs in the presence of a small number of HIV-infected CD4/sup +/ cells. These new insights into the pathogenesis of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) may lead to future therapeutic strategies.
Research Organization:
Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
OSTI ID:
6124324
Journal Information:
Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A.; (United States), Journal Name: Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A.; (United States) Vol. 84:5; ISSN PNASA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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