Underlying mechanisms of HIV-1 latency

Virus Genes. 2017 Jun;53(3):329-339. doi: 10.1007/s11262-017-1443-1. Epub 2017 Mar 3.

Abstract

Similarly to other retroviruses, HIV-1 integrates its genome into the cellular chromosome. Expression of viral genes from the integrated viral DNA could then be regulated by the host genome. If the infected cell suppresses viral gene expression, the virus will undergo latency. The latently infected cells cannot be detected or cleared by the immune system since they do not express viral antigens. These cells remain undetected for several years, even under antiretroviral treatments. The silenced HIV-1 DNA could be reactivated under certain conditions. Despite the efficient use of antiretroviral drugs, HIV-1 latently infected cells remain the major obstacles to a permanent cure. In this review, we discuss the cellular and molecular mechanisms through which HIV-1 establishes latency.

Keywords: HIV-1; Latency; Latent reservoir; Reactivation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-HIV Agents / pharmacology
  • Anti-HIV Agents / therapeutic use
  • CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes / virology
  • DNA, Viral / physiology
  • Gene Expression Regulation*
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy
  • HIV Infections / virology
  • HIV-1 / drug effects
  • HIV-1 / genetics
  • HIV-1 / physiology*
  • Host-Parasite Interactions / genetics*
  • Host-Parasite Interactions / physiology*
  • Humans
  • MicroRNAs
  • RNA, Viral / physiology
  • Transcription, Genetic
  • Viral Proteins / physiology
  • Virus Activation / drug effects
  • Virus Integration / physiology
  • Virus Latency / drug effects
  • Virus Latency / genetics
  • Virus Latency / physiology*

Substances

  • Anti-HIV Agents
  • DNA, Viral
  • MicroRNAs
  • RNA, Viral
  • Viral Proteins