The felid immunodeficiency viruses: viral cell tropism and the pathogenesis of feline AIDS

Willett, B.J. and Hosie, M.J. (2010) The felid immunodeficiency viruses: viral cell tropism and the pathogenesis of feline AIDS. In: Desport, M. (ed.) Lentiviruses and Macrophages. Horizon Scientific Press. ISBN 9781904455608

Abstract

Lentiviruses are widespread pathogens of primates, ungulates and felids. While the ungulate lentiviruses induce a disease state typical of a chronic inflammatory condition, the felid and primate lentiviruses induce an immunodeficiency characterised by a progressive depletion of CD4+ T helper cells. FIV infection of the domestic cat may lead to a spectrum of diseases, ranging from a rapid, acute-onset immunodeficiency to a chronic wasting disease with concomitant neuropathology and persistent recurring opportunistic infections. Here, we examine the host and viral determinants of FIV cell tropism and pathogenicity. The virus targets activated CD4+ T cells selectively by interactions with its primary receptor, CD134 and co-receptor, CXCR4. We discuss the impact of the virus-receptor interaction on the normal cellular function of the viral receptors and the cells on which they are expressed and assess how this contributes to pathogenicity, immunity to infection and the prospects for the development of FIV vaccines.

• Item Type: Book Sections
• Status: Published
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Hosie, Professor Margaret and Willett, Professor Brian
• Authors: Willett, B.J., and Hosie, M.J.
• Subjects: Q Science > QR Microbiology > QR355 Virology
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Infection & Immunity; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Infection & Immunity > Centre for Virus Research
• Publisher: Horizon Scientific Press
• ISBN: 9781904455608
• Copyright Holders: Horizon Scientific Press