Therapeutic role of CD8+ T cells in HIV-1 infection:: targets and suppressors of viral replication

CD8(+) T cells are pivotal in controlling viral replication in HIV-1 -infected subjects. However, in chronic infection, HIV-1 -specific CD8(+) T cells fail to adequately control infection, presenting incomplete maturation and more severe functional impairment with advanced disease. Accumulating evidence has shown that CD8(+) T cells can also be productively infected by HIV-1. Whether HIV-1 infection of CD8(+) T lymphocytes impacts on their antiviral activity remains to be determined. This review explores the potential mechanisms of HIV-1 infection of CD8(+) T cells, its likely contribution to the immuncipathogenesis of HIV-1 infection and potential therapeutic interventions.