Why do AIDS patients lose almost all T cells? New study may have answer

Research published in the journal Cell may have finally determined why a type of immune cell is almost totally absent in the body when HIV progresses to AIDS.

Previously, medical experts noticed that when HIV advanced far enough, immune cells known as T helper cells - or CD4 T cells, for the presence of a protein called CD4 on their surface - practically disappeared. Their absence was agreed to be a good indication that HIV had become AIDS.

However, it was believed that CD4 T cells were not largely attacked by the human immunodeficiency virus, hence their disappearance was a mystery. The study in Cell, though, found that CD4 T cells are attacked by the virus and, when they die, essentially commit suicide.

When invaded, the cells appear to register that HIV replication is occurring within them, the study’s authors write. As an immune measure, they quickly rupture, spilling their contents into the bloodstream. It is believed that other CD4 T cells then rush to the site and are themselves infected, starting an unstoppable cycle.

The researchers conclude that awareness of this process may contribute to more efficient anti-viral treatments for individuals with HIV.

HIV is currently a lifelong disease. Those who suspect they have contracted the virus may consider investing in online testing services.

More than 18,000 Americans die of AIDS every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.