Role of gamma delta T-lymphocytes in HIV infection.
T-lymphocytes expressing the gamma delta T-cell receptor (TCR) comprise a small proportion (1-5%) of circulating CD3(+) T-lymphocytes. While T-cells expressing a V delta 2V gamma 9-encoded TCR dominate among peripheral blood gamma delta T-lymphocytes in healthy individuals, significant alterations in the gamma delta TCR repertoire are observed in HIV-infected persons. These changes are due to the selective preservation (and frequently moderate expansion) of V delta 1-expressing cells and the simultaneous depletion of V delta 2-expressing cells. In this brief review, we discuss the alterations in the gamma delta T-lymphocyte compartment in HIV infection, with special emphasis on the potential role of gamma delta T-cell in the immune defense against HIV.
Kabelitz
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Institute of Immunology, Univeristy of Kiel, Kiel, Germany. kabelitz@immunologie.uni-kiel.de
Wesch
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D015658:HIV Infections / Q000276:immunology* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000821:virology; D006801:Humans; D008024:Ligands; D016692:Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell, gamma-delta / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism; D016176:T-Lymphocyte Subsets / Q000166:cytology / Q000276:immunology*; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology*
D008024:Ligands; D016692:Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell, gamma-delta