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Role of Regulatory T Cells During HIV Infection

  • Living reference work entry
  • First Online:
Encyclopedia of AIDS

  • 412 Accesses

Definition

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) causes a gradual loss of immune competence, leading to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV-associated defects in cell-mediated immunity (CMI) are of particular importance, as these impairments lead to poor control of HIV replication and of other pathogens whose clearance depends on CMI. Importantly, a number of immune deficits caused by HIV infection can be partially restored in vitro, suggesting the existence of active regulatory mechanisms. Several mechanisms are involved in the regulation of the immune system; among these is the pivotal role of regulatory T cells (Treg), a subset of CD4+T cells, which has been recognized for several years. In addition to their role in controlling peripheral tolerance, Treg promote the establishment of persistent infections (viral, bacterial, parasitic, and fungal). Treg may thus contribute to inefficient CMI during chronic HIV infection. However, Treg may also play a beneficial role, because...

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, USA

    Claire A. Chougnet, Maria E. Moreno-Fernandez & Cesar M. Rueda

Authors
  1. Claire A. Chougnet
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  2. Maria E. Moreno-Fernandez
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  3. Cesar M. Rueda
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Claire A. Chougnet .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Dept. Cell & Molecular Biology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA

    Thomas J. Hope

  2. Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA

    Mario Stevenson

  3. University of California, San Diego Dept. Pathology, La Jolla, California, USA

    Douglas Richman

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Chougnet, C.A., Moreno-Fernandez, M.E., Rueda, C.M. (2014). Role of Regulatory T Cells During HIV Infection. In: Hope, T., Stevenson, M., Richman, D. (eds) Encyclopedia of AIDS. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-9610-6_202-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-9610-6_202-1

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, New York, NY

  • Online ISBN: 978-1-4614-9610-6

  • eBook Packages: Springer Reference MedicineReference Module Medicine

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