Quiescent T cells and HIV: an unresolved relationship.

The ability of HIV to infect quiescent CD4+ T cells has been a topic of intense debate. While early studies suggested that the virus could not infect this particular T cell subset, subsequent studies using more sensitive protocols demonstrated that these cells could inefficiently support HIV infection. Additional studies showed that the kinetics of infection in quiescent cells was delayed and multiple stages of the viral life cycle were marred by inefficiencies. Despite that, proviral DNA has been found in these cells presenting them as a potential viral reservoir. Therefore, a better understanding of the relationship between HIV and quiescent T cells may lead to further advances in the field of HIV.