Epidermal Langerhans cells are not principal reservoirs of virus in HIV disease

摘要: Several reports implicate Langerhans cells of skin as susceptible targets, reservoirs, and vectors for transmission HIV: 1) numbers in HIV-infected patients were decreased about 50% that control skin; 2) many 30% the morphologically abnormal; 3) viral particles typical HIV identified or around 2 to 5% these cells; 4) infectious was isolated from biopsies infected patients. These results consistent with similar observations macrophages such tissues brain, lung, lymph node. Despite findings, other investigators find no evidence virus infection epidermis by any several immunohistochemical ultrastructural criteria. To address this controversy, we obtained 28 HIV-seropositive subjects at various clinical stages full thickness biopsy suction blister. Samples analyzed electron microscopy presence virions, immunofluorescent staining proteins, situ hybridization HIV-specific mRNA, polymerase chain reaction amplification virus-specific DNA, direct isolation coculture onto monocyte target cells. By techniques, demonstration equivocal even then, infrequent. In contrast, DNA detected dermis same samples (26 samples). Moreover, number morphology within normal limits, regardless stage disease. studies toto suggest a role principal reservoir vector is highly unlikely.