Suppression of lymphocyte egress in simian immunodeficiency virus‐infected rhesus macaques

Abstract

Lymphocyte egress from organized lymphoid tissues is dependent on the G protein-coupled, sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor 1 (S1P1). Together with its cognate ligand, sphingosine 1-phosphate, S1P1 is believed to mediate cellular migration through the modulation of its expression on lymphocytes and endothelial cells within the lymphatic sinuses. Here we report correlative evidence, through the quantitation of S1P1 protein and RNA levels, that lymphocyte sequestration is intrinsic to the development of lymphoid hyperplasia in simian immunodeficiency virus-infected macaques. Furthermore, we suggest that the spatial expression of S1P1 contributes to the heterogeneity of viral dissemination and pathology that is characteristic of simian AIDS. Methods utilized in this study include: whole slide imaging, laser-dissection microscopy, in situ hybridization. This research was supported by the J. David Gladstone Institutes.