Infectious Virus Persists in CD4 + T Cells and Macrophages in Antiretroviral Therapy-Suppressed Simian Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Macaques

Abstract

This study suggests that CD4 + T cells found throughout tissues in the body can contain replication-competent SIV and contribute to rebound of the virus after treatment interruption. In addition, this study demonstrates that macrophages in tissues are another cellular reservoir for SIV and may contribute to viral rebound after treatment interruption. This new insight into the size and location of the SIV reservoir could have great implications for HIV-infected individuals and should be taken into consideration for the development of future HIV cure strategies.