A study, combining computer modeling and experiments in macaques, has been revealed by Los Alamos National Laboratory. The study indicates that the human immune system controls HIV infections primarily by restraining viral replication in infected cells and eliminating these cells. The research paper, titled "CD8+ T cells control SIV infection using both cytolytic effects and non-cytolytic suppression of virus production", was published according to a press release by Los Alamos National Laboratory.
The research identified an HIV immune response within the body. According to the study, the immune system's effectiveness in controlling HIV infections is most pronounced during the initial stages of infection. The researchers mainly focused on a specific CD8+ T cell-mediated immune response. "The findings revealed that T cells manage HIV by eliminating infected cells and stimulate host cells to mount defensive responses against the infection," said Los Alamos National Laboratory in a press release.
“To eliminate HIV, we have to understand how the immune system attempts to control the infection,” said Ribeiro, according to another press release from Los Alamos National Laboratory.
To determine the influence of T cells on this process, researchers at Los Alamos used a model to predict results when treating distinct groups of infected macaques with antibodies and antiviral drugs. Their model analysis helped identify which immune mechanisms most accurately explained observed outcomes. This recent study expanded upon a mathematical model developed by Ruy M. Ribeiro and his team at Los Alamos in 2017.
Ribeiro emphasized on how understanding existing defense mechanisms is vital for creating future treatments; “The immune system can’t eliminate an HIV infection,” he stated, “but pinpointing the existing mechanism by which it is controlling HIV to some extent is very important for designing treatments that enhance this mechanism. If we can modulate the immune system to help control HIV better, we may be able to cure the disease at some point.”
