Early immune senescence in HIV disease

Curr HIV/AIDS Rep. 2010 Feb;7(1):4-10. doi: 10.1007/s11904-009-0038-4.

Abstract

Non-AIDS-defining co-morbidities that occur despite viral suppression and immune reconstitution using antiretroviral therapy depict early aging process in HIV-infected individuals. During aging, a reduction in T-cell renewal, together with a progressive enrichment of terminally differentiated T cells, translates into a general decline of the immune system, gradually leading to immunosenescence. Inflammation is a hallmark of age-associated comorbidities, and immune activation is a hallmark of HIV disease. Constant stimulation of the immune system by HIV or due to co-infections activates the innate and adaptive immune system, resulting in release of mediators of inflammation. Immune activation coupled with lack of anti-inflammatory responses likely results in accelerated aging in HIV disease. Dysfunctional thymic output, along with HIV-mediated disruption of the gastrointestinal barrier leading to microbial translocation, contributes to the circulating antigenic load driving early senescence in HIV disease.

MeSH terms

  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / drug therapy
  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / immunology
  • Aging / immunology*
  • Antiretroviral Therapy, Highly Active
  • HIV Antigens / physiology
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy
  • HIV Infections / immunology*
  • HIV Infections / physiopathology*
  • Humans
  • Immune System / physiopathology*
  • Inflammation Mediators / immunology
  • Lymphocyte Activation
  • Middle Aged
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology
  • Virus Replication

Substances

  • HIV Antigens
  • Inflammation Mediators