Role of distinct CD4+ T-cell subsets in HIV-infection pathogenesis

CD4+ T-cell pool is composed of cells residing in different maturation stages. Naive CD4+ T-lymphocytes, CD4+ stem memory T-cells, CD4+ central and effector memory T-lymphocytes perform various functions in maintaining the immune system homeostasis. Despite phenotypic differences, each of those cells can be infected with HIV. Specific features of distinct CD4+ T-lymphocyte subsets determine their role in HIV-infection pathogenesis. By analyzing changes of CD4+ T-lymphocyte subset composition, one can estimate the degree of the immune system damage and make predictions of immune recovery under highly active antiretroviral therapy. The article summarizes the main events occurring with CD4+ T-cell subsets during HIV-infection.