Can Langerhans cell UV injury and dendritic cell infection by immunodepressive viruses induce immunologic tolerance? Second part: immunologic tolerance in AIDS.
In the first part of the present editorial [1], we recalled experimental and clinical data demonstrating that 1) UV, via their effects on Langerhans cells, and 2) some so-called immunodepressive viruses, such as measles, lymphocytic choriomeningitis agents, and some animal retroviruses, via their action on dendritic cells, can induce tolerance in some conditions concerning immunologic parameters and/or the antigen(s). We present in this second part of the editorial a commentary on patients treated at the AIDS phase of HIV-1 infection for 3.5 to 8 years. Among them, one has been submitted before and at the beginning of our treatment, for a psoriasis, to a PUVA irradiation, at the dose of 214.5 J (spectrum 230-320). We were present at the end of this irradiation to see the disappearance of his blood CD4 and of his suppressor T cells. Comparing his data with those of other patients of the cohort similarly treated, we have found arguments to consider that this UV-victim patient has presented for the 6 years of his clinically excellent survival and still presents manifestations of immunologic tolerance towards a fraction of his HIV-1 population.
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D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000276:immunology*; D003712:Dendrites / Q000276:immunology* / Q000821:virology*; D006678:HIV / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D007108:Immune Tolerance; D007801:Langerhans Cells / Q000276:immunology* / Q000528:radiation effects*