HIV infection of human gastrointestinal submucosal cells: an in vitro model that mimics Kaposi's sarcoma.

Infection of human gastrointestinal submucosal mesenchymal cells with HIV-1 led to cell populations with abnormal growth properties, increased synthesis of endothelial cell and angioblast markers, and release of angiogenic factors. This system may be the first in vitro model for HIV-induced Kaposi's sarcoma.