Cytokines, viruses and macrophages: an interactive network. An immune dysregulation involving the members of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor superfamily could be critical in AIDS pathogenesis
Herbein, G.
Pathologie-Biologie 45(2): 115-125
1997
ISSN/ISBN: 0369-8114 PMID: 9247033 Document Number: 479955
Both macrophages and cytokines are components of the immune defense against viral infections. Among cytokines, interferons have been the most studied and interferon-gamma which is secreted by T cells and NK cells activates macrophages which synthesize both interferon-alpha and -beta which have powerful antiviral activity. Aside from interferons other cytokines such as rumor necrosis factor-alpha and transforming growth factor-beta display an antiviral activity. Nevertheless often cytokines could mediate distinct actions in regard to viral infection and this has been demonstrated extensively in AIDS pathogenesis. We reviewed among others the interactions between human immunodeficiency virus type-1, macrophages and cytokines and would like to forward a new model for AIDS pathogenesis based on the involvement of the TNF receptor superfamily.