The role of follicular helper CD4 T cells in the development of HIV-1 specific broadly neutralizing antibody responses

Abstract The induction of HIV-1-specific antibodies that can neutralize a broad number of isolates is a major goal of HIV-1 vaccination strategies. However, to date no candidate HIV-1 vaccine has successfully elicited broadly neutralizing antibodies of sufficient quality and breadth for protection....

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Eirini Moysi, Constantinos Petrovas, Richard A. Koup
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: BMC 2018-08-01
Series:Retrovirology
Subjects:
Online Access:http://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12977-018-0437-y
Description
Summary:Abstract The induction of HIV-1-specific antibodies that can neutralize a broad number of isolates is a major goal of HIV-1 vaccination strategies. However, to date no candidate HIV-1 vaccine has successfully elicited broadly neutralizing antibodies of sufficient quality and breadth for protection. In this review, we focus on the role of follicular helper CD4 T-cells (Tfh) in the development of such cross-reactive protective antibodies. We discuss germinal center (GC) formation and the dynamics of Tfh and GC B cells during HIV-1/SIV infection and vaccination. Finally, we consider future directions for the study of Tfh and offer perspective on factors that could be modulated to enhance Tfh function in the context of prophylactic vaccination.
ISSN:1742-4690