The Open Virology Journal

2011, 5 : 35-43
Published online 2011 May 11. DOI: 10.2174/1874357901105010035
Publisher ID: TOVJ-5-35

RESEARCH ARTICLE
 Genetic and Immunological Factors Involved in Natural Resistance to HIV-1 Infection

Natalia Taborda-Vanegas , Wildeman Zapata and María Teresa Rugeles, *
Group of Immunovirology, University of Antioquia, Calle 62 # 52-59, Medellin, Colombia

* Address correspondence to this author at the Group of Immunovirology, University of Antioquia, Calle 62 # 52-59, Lab 532, Medellín, Colombia; Tel: 57-4-2196482; Fax; 57-4-2196482; E-mail: mtrugel@catios.udea.edu.co

ABSTRACT

Infection with Human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1) induces severe alterations of the immune system leading to an increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections and malignancies. However, exposure to the virus does not always results in infection. Indeed, there exist individuals who have been repeatedly exposed to HIV-1 but do not exhibit clinical or serological evidence of infection, known as exposed seronegative individuals. Many studies have focused on the different mechanisms involved in natural resistance to HIV-1 infection, and have reported several factors associated with this phenomenon, including the presence of genetic polymorphisms in the viral coreceptors, innate and adaptive immune cells with particular phenotypic and functional features, and molecules such as antibodies and soluble factors that play an important role in defense against infection by HIV-1. The study of these factors could be the key for controlling this viral infection. This review summarizes the main mechanisms involved in resistance to HIV-1 infection.

Keywords:

HIV-1 (Human immunodeficiency virus type-1), natural resistance, exposed seronegative individuals, polymorphisms, antibodies, soluble factors..