Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 (HIV-1)-Specific CD8+ TEMRA Cells in Early Infection Are Linked to Control of HIV-1 Viremia and Predict the Subsequent Viral Load Set Point

ABSTRACT CD8+ T cells are believed to play an important role in the control of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection. However, despite intensive efforts, it has not been possible to consistently link the overall magnitude of the CD8+ T-cell response with control of HIV-1. Here, we have investigated the association of different CD8+ memory T-cell subsets responding to HIV-1 in early infection with future control of HIV-1 viremia. Our results demonstrate that both a larger proportion and an absolute number of HIV-1-specific CD8+ CCR7− CD45RA+ effector memory T cells (TEMRA cells) were associated with a lower future viral load set point. In contrast, a larger absolute number of HIV-1-specific CD8+ CCR7− CD45RA− effector memory T cells (TEM) was not related to the viral load set point. Overall, the findings suggest that CD8+ TEMRA cells have superior antiviral activity and indicate that both qualitative and quantitative aspects of the CD8+ T-cell response need to be considered when defining the characteristics of protective immunity to HIV-1.

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