Immunological aspects of AIDS Flashcards
1
Q
What happens to the viral load after infection of HIV-1?
A
There is a dynamic of both high viral production and loss, because of quasi-species formed.
2
Q
Why are CD4+ T-cells gradually lost?
A
- Interference with thymic output. This is measured by TRECs formed during VDJ rearrangement (TREC decline in HIV infection).
- Chronic immune activation.
3
Q
What are TRECs?
A
T-cell receptor excision circles, which are formed during V(D)J rearrangement.
4
Q
What causes TREC decline in HIV infection?
A
There is increased T-cell proliferation.
