Monocyte expression of adhesion molecules in HIV-infected patients: variations according to disease stage and possible pathogenic role
Pillet, S.; Prevost, M.H.; Preira, A.; Girard, P.M.; Rogine, N.; Hakim, J.; Gougerot-Pocidalo, M.A.; Elbim, C.
Laboratory Investigation; a Journal of Technical Methods and Pathology 79(7): 815-822
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0023-6837 PMID: 10418822 Document Number: 503171
We used flow cytometry to study the expression of adhesion molecules at the cell surface and actin polymerization of whole-blood monocytes in 35 HIV-infected patients at different stages of the disease. Monocytes were activated in vivo, as demonstrated by increased expression of the adhesion molecule CD11b/CD18, reduced L-selectin antigen expression, and increased actin polymerization. These abnormalities were present in asymptomatic patients with CD4+ cell counts greater than 500/microl and did not increase with disease progression or viral load. Sialyl-Lewis x and CD31 expression at the monocyte surface was normal in asymptomatic and symptomatic non-AIDS patients. In contrast expression of both molecules was strongly reduced in patients with AIDS. This change, despite normal maximal CD11b/CD18 expression and normal maximal actin polymerization, could contribute to the increased susceptibility to bacterial infections in AIDS. In contrast enhanced monocyte activation may promote their transendothelial migration in non-AIDS patients, possibly explaining the macrophage infiltration that can occur early in the disease.