Human immunodeficiency virus infection of human brain capillary endothelial cells occurs via a CD4/galactosylceramide-independent mechanism.
Neuropathologic studies of AIDS patients have shown that brain capillary endothelial cells are a cellular target for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in vivo. We have established in vitro cultures of primary human brain capillary endothelial (HBCE) cells. Using this model system, we have shown a significant HIV infection of HBCE cells that is productive yet noncytopathic. The infection is mediated by a cellular interaction with gp120 that does not involve CD4 or galactosylceramide. HIV infection of HBCE cells may contribute to AIDS-associated neuropathology by disturbing the physiology of the endothelium and directly or indirectly facilitating dissemination of virus to the central nervous system.
Moses
A V
AV
Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201.
Bloom
F E
FE
Pauza
C D
CD
Nelson
J A
JA
D015704:CD4 Antigens / Q000378:metabolism; D002478:Cells, Cultured; D004730:Endothelium, Vascular / Q000382:microbiology*; D000939:Epitopes; D005455:Fluorescent Antibody Technique; D005699:Galactosylceramides / Q000378:metabolism; D015699:HIV Envelope Protein gp120 / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism*; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000378:metabolism*; D015497:HIV-1 / Q000254:growth & development*; D006801:Humans; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D011991:Receptors, Virus / Q000378:metabolism; D014779:Virus Replication
D015704:CD4 Antigens; D000939:Epitopes; D005699:Galactosylceramides; D015699:HIV Envelope Protein gp120; D011991:Receptors, Virus