Inhibition of HIV-1 Spread: Cell-Free Versus Cell-Cell

Abstract

Heterosexual transmission is currently the major mode of HIV transmission worldwide. In addition to the CD4 + T cells which are the principal target, several other potential HIV target cell types including antigen-presenting cells (APCs) (dendritic cells, macrophages) residing at mucosal sites can be also infected. The capacity of these APCs to replicate cell-free virus is low but they transfer HIV-1 to CD4 T lymphocytes efficiently. The various modes of infection are responsible for rapid and efficient replication of HIV-1 and its dissemination through the organism. Preventing cell-to-cell transmission of HIV-1 is crucial for inhibiting HIV-1 propagation, and either antiretroviral drugs or anti-HIV-1-specific antibodies (Abs) can be used.