Hallmarks of SIV infection are early depletion of gut CD4 T cells and diminished intestinal integrity. Comprehensive studies on colon biopsies of SIV-infected macaques efficiently controlling infection revealed that in contrast to viremic and failing controllers, elite controllers show preserved CD4 T cells, and low viral load, apoptosis, and inflammation.
Keywords: CD4 depletion; apoptosis; colon; immune activation; microbial translocation; simian immunodeficiency virus.
© 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.