Roles, function and relevance of LAG3 in HIV infection

PLoS Pathog. 2019 Jan 17;15(1):e1007429. doi: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1007429. eCollection 2019 Jan.

Abstract

HIV causes several forms of immune dysfunction that need to be addressed in a functional cure for HIV. Immune exhaustion describes a dysfunctional phenotype caused by chronic cellular activation. Lymphocyte activation gene-3 (LAG3) is one of several negative coreceptors known as immune checkpoints that contribute to this exhaustion phenotype. Antibodies targeting immune checkpoints are now used clinically to restore immunity against cancer and hold promise in restoring immunity during HIV infection. Here, we summarize current knowledge surrounding LAG3 and discuss its relevance during HIV infection and the potential for LAG3-targeting antibodies in a functional HIV cure.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies
  • Antigens, CD / genetics
  • Antigens, CD / immunology
  • Antigens, CD / metabolism
  • Antigens, CD / physiology*
  • CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes / immunology
  • HIV Infections / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Lymphocyte Activation
  • Lymphocyte Activation Gene 3 Protein
  • Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor / immunology
  • Signal Transduction

Substances

  • Antibodies
  • Antigens, CD
  • Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor
  • Lymphocyte Activation Gene 3 Protein
  • Lag3 protein, human