Suppression of HIV-1 plasma viral load below detection preserves IL-17 producing T cells in HIV-1 infection

Abstract

IL-17 is proinflammatory cytokine secreted by a unique CD4+ T (Th₁₇) cell subset and proposed to play a role in host defense. We hypothesized that Th₁₇ cells are lost in HIV-1 infection. HIV-1-infected children with plasma viremia below 50 copies/ml had IL-17 production, whereas those with detectable viremia had minimal secretion. These results imply viral-mediated destruction or impairment of Th₁₇ cells and argue for complete suppression of viremia for reconstitution of Th₁₇ cells.