CD4 +CD25 + regulatory T cells in HIV infection

Abstract

The immune system faces the difficult task of discerning between foreign, potentially pathogen-derived antigens and self-antigens. Several mechanisms, including deletion of self-reactive T cells in the thymus, have been shown to contribute to the acceptance of self-antigens and the reciprocal reactivity to foreign antigens. Over the last decade it has become increasingly clear that CD4 +CD25 + T Reg cells are crucial for maintenance of T cell tolerance to self-antigens in the periphery, and to avoid development of autoimmune disorders. Recently, evidence has also emerged that demonstrates that CD4 +CD25 + T Reg cells can also suppress T cell responses to foreign pathogens, including viruses such as HIV. In this article we review the current knowledge and potential role of CD4 +CD25 + T Reg cells in HIV infection.