Epidermal Langerhans cells and HIV-1 infection.
Originating from the bone marrow, Langerhans cells migrate into the peripheral epithelia (skin, mucous membranes) and play a key role in the immune surveillance system against foreign antigens. They act as antigen-presenting cells through a specific cooperation with CD4+ lymphocytes after migration to the proximal lymph nodes. As HIV-1-permissive cells, Langerhans cells in genital or rectal mucosa may be the first infected cell type and may be the vectors of infection for CD4-positive T cells. It has been clearly demonstrated that Langerhans cells may be infected in HIV-1 sero-positive patients. Recently in vitro experimental infection of Langerhans cells was achieved using a co-culture assay with HIV-1-infected cells. Investigation into the exact role of Langerhans cells in the course of HIV-1 infection will contribute greatly to our understanding of AIDS pathogenesis.
Dezutter-Dambuyant
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C
INSERM U 346 Peau Humanine et Immunité, Clinique Dermato-Vénérologique, Hôp. Edouard Herriot, Lyon, France.
Schmitt
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D
D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000276:immunology; D002478:Cells, Cultured; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000276:immunology*; D015497:HIV-1 / Q000276:immunology* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D006801:Humans; D007801:Langerhans Cells / Q000382:microbiology* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D012867:Skin / Q000166:cytology / Q000382:microbiology* / Q000648:ultrastructure