The HTLV-1 Virological Synapse
2010
Understanding the HTLV-1 Virological Synapse
publication
Evidence: high
Author Information
Author(s): Nejmeddine Mohamed, Bangham Charles R.M.
Primary Institution: Department of Immunology, Wright-Fleming Institute, Imperial College London
Hypothesis
HTLV-1 spreads efficiently between T-cells via a specialized cell-cell contact known as the virological synapse.
Conclusion
HTLV-1 relies almost exclusively on cell-to-cell transmission to spread, utilizing a specialized area of contact called the virological synapse.
Supporting Evidence
- HTLV-1 can infect a wide range of human cell types in vitro but is almost confined to CD4+ T lymphocytes in vivo.
- Cell-to-cell transmission of HTLV-1 is significantly more efficient than cell-free transmission.
- The virological synapse is characterized by a tight apposition of cell membranes, facilitating viral transmission.
Takeaway
HTLV-1 is a virus that spreads between immune cells by creating a special connection called a virological synapse, which helps it move from one cell to another.
Methodology
The review summarizes mechanisms of HTLV-1 transmission and the role of the Tax protein in forming the virological synapse.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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