Vd1 T Cells as a Potential Candidate for an HIV Cure

Abstract

Modified autologous lymphocytes as treatment for disease has become the focus of increasing interest. In the context of HIV, this approach is costly, time-consuming, and, to date, has not been particularly effective. The pathology of HIV is incredibly complex, and achieving a functional cure would involve clearing the infection from the mucosal tissues where there is poor drug penetration for those on antiretrovirals. Delta One T (DOT) cells, an expanded population of gamma delta 1 (Vd1) T cells, may represent a novel immunotherapy for targeting the HIV reservoir within the mucosa. Vd1 T cells preferentially reside in the mucosa, which is typically where they perform their anti-viral/anti-tumoral functions. Previous studies have demonstrated their cytotoxicity towards target cells in vitro and in vivo through a variety of cytotoxic receptors including natural killer (NK) receptors such as NKG2D and NKp30. While there is no distinct marker of cells latently infected with HIV, there is some evidence to suggest that they express ligands for these NK receptors. Furthermore, the lack of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) restriction on Vd1 T cells means that these cells can be given to multiple donors without the risk of inducing graft-versus-host-disease (GvHD), making this a potentially scalable treatment.