HIV-specific CD8+ T-cell immune responses and viral replication.

AIM

To review current knowledge of CD8+ T cells in relation to their effect on the replication of HIV and on disease progression.

PRESENT KNOWLEDGE

Both CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes capable of killing cells expressing HIV antigens and CD8+ lymphocytes that suppress HIV replication in vitro are detectable in response to HIV infection.

CONCLUSION

These CD8+ T cells may help to maintain a low viral load in vivo, thus allowing a long asymptomatic period of infection.