Regulatory T Cells and HIV-1 Infection

Recently, it has been emphasized that chronic generalized immune activation is a leading event in the pathogenesis of HIV-1 infection. Supporting evidence comes from observations that in cases of lack of activation, infected subjects maintain a high number of T cells and do not develop AIDS-related events. Despite intensive studies, the exact mechanisms of T-cell activation are still not well understood and options for their control are limited. Very promising in this direction is a recently described T-cell subpopulation-regulatory T cells. Their functional activity and vitality are strongly dependent on the presence of IL-2. Better understanding of the mechanisms of T-cell activation, as well as the contribution of regulatory T cells to its control will increase therapeutic options for HIV-1-infected subjects. The application of immune-based therapy together with highly active antiretroviral therapy will lend a helping hand to the natural regulatory mechanisms in the control of infection.