Impact of HIV infection on T follicular helper cells / 中华临床感染病杂志

ABSTRACT

T follicular helper cells(Tfh)possess the function to induce efficient B cell maturation in germinal center (GC).However,HIV infection can destroy the structure of lymphoid follicles,and disturb the quantity and function of Tfh,resulting in the dysfunction of B cells.Meanwhile,HIV may remain dormant in the Tfh after invading host and escape the elimination of immunologic system.Consequently,the Tfh turns into the sanctuary of HIV.By the above mentioned mechanism,HIV infection leads to the progressive damage of CD4 + T lymphocytes, hypergammaglobulinemia and the loss of memory B lymphocytes.