HIV integration into the host genome, forming the HIV reservoir, represents the major barrier to HIV eradication. It is not clear, however, how the HIV reservoir changes during long-term antiretroviral therapy (ART). Kevin Einkauf and colleagues have performed the first comprehensive study analyzing the intact integrated HIV virus. Profound changes in the structure and composition of HIV reservoir were found in 3 HIV-infected individuals undergoing suppressive ART for at least 8 years. There was also a selection of deeper viral latency during prolonged ART. In a nutshell, the HIV reservoir responsible for viral rebound enters a more latent state after years of ART.
HIV reservoir changes dramatically during prolonged ART
