Differences in the gene expression profile of HIV- and CMV-specific CD8 T cells in HIV infection

Here we studied the transcriptional profile of virus specific CD8 T cells to gain molecular insights in CD8 T cell functionality in HIV infection. HIV- and CMV-specific CD8 T cells were isolated from HIV infected individuals participating in the Amsterdam Cohort Studies (HIV progressors, long-term non-progressors (LTNP; HLA-B*57 and non-HLA-B*57) and individuals carrying the MAVS minor genotype) and CMV seropositive blood donors (BD). The transcription profile of HIV-specific CD8 T cells of LTNP groups was associated with increased protein/RNA metabolism pathways, indicating that immune control of HIV infection in these individuals is associated with increased functionality. In contrast, CMV-specific CD8 T cells from progressors showed increased expression of genes related to effector functions and suggests recent CMV reactivation. Our study provides novel insights into molecular mechanisms involved in HIV and CMV control in chronic HIV infection.