Phylogenetics and Phyloanatomy of HIV/SIV Intra-Host Compartments and Reservoirs: The Key Role of the Central Nervous System

Title:Phylogenetics and Phyloanatomy of HIV/SIV Intra-Host Compartments and Reservoirs: The Key Role of the Central Nervous System

Volume: 14 Issue: 2

Author(s): Marco Salemi and Brittany Rife

Affiliation:

Keywords: CNS, phylogenetics, phylogeography, HIV-1, reservoir, SIV, phyloanatomy.

Abstract: Background: The ability of the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) to persist in anatomic compartments and cellular reservoirs is a major obstacle for eradication of replicationcompetent virus in the infected host.

Approach: We extensively review recent advancements in phylogenetic and phylogeographic techniques that provide a unique opportunity for studies of intra-host HIV-1 compartmentalization and the detection of potential reservoirs.

Conclusion: We show that infected macrophages in the central nervous system (CNS) harbor viral subpopulations that play a key role in the emergence of escape variants and viral rebound following discontinuation of antiretroviral therapy. An HIV cure, therefore, cannot be achieved without the effective targeting of the virus in the CNS, for which in depth knowledge of viral population dynamics contributing to the development and maintenance of latent reservoirs is critical.

Cite this article as:

Salemi Marco and Rife Brittany, Phylogenetics and Phyloanatomy of HIV/SIV Intra-Host Compartments and Reservoirs: The Key Role of the Central Nervous System, Current HIV Research 2016; 14 (2) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/1570162X13666151029102413