The role of mannose receptor on HIV-1 entry into human spermatozoa.
In this opinion article we consider the possibility that human spermatozoa have receptors for human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1). It is clear that sperm cells have the potential for transmitting HIV-1, but the mechanisms responsible for spreading or the virus by this vector are not known. In contrast to the traditional HIV-1 target cells, spermatozoa do not express CD4 receptors or the CCR5/CXCR4 co-receptors. Recent evidence indicates that astrocytes, which also do not express these molecules, can be infected with HIV-1 through the mannose receptor. Furthermore, a 160-kDa sperm receptor that interacts with the HIV gp 120 has been described. Therefore, we hypothesize that the mannose receptor, of 165-175 kDa, is the receptor that HIV-1 uses to invade spermatozoa, which could lead to both vertical and horizontal transmission of HIV-1.
Cardona-Maya
Wálter
W
Reproduction Group, University of Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia. wdcmaya@medicina.udea.edu.co
López-Herrera
Albeiro
A
Velilla-Hernández
Paula
P
Rugeles
María T
MT
Cadavid
Angela P
AP
D015658:HIV Infections / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000635:transmission* / Q000821:virology; D015497:HIV-1 / Q000472:pathogenicity*; D006801:Humans; D037181:Lectins, C-Type / Q000502:physiology*; D008297:Male; D000090323:Mannose Receptor; D037241:Mannose-Binding Lectins / Q000502:physiology*; D011956:Receptors, Cell Surface / Q000502:physiology*; D013094:Spermatozoa / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000821:virology
D037181:Lectins, C-Type; D000090323:Mannose Receptor; D037241:Mannose-Binding Lectins; D011956:Receptors, Cell Surface