Membrane nanotubes physically connect T cells over long distances presenting a novel route for HIV-1 transmission.

Journal article

Transmission of HIV-1 via intercellular connections has been estimated as 100-1000 times more efficient than a cell-free process, perhaps in part explaining persistent viral spread in the presence of neutralizing antibodies. Such effective intercellular transfer of HIV-1 could occur through virological synapses or target-cell filopodia connected to infected cells. Here we report that membrane nanotubes, formed when T cells make contact and subsequently part, provide a new route for HIV-1 tran...

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Authors: Sowinski, S; Jolly, C; Berninghausen, O; Purbhoo, M; Chauveau, A

• Publication status: Published
• Journal: Nature cell biology
• Volume: 10
• Issue: 2
• Pages: 211-219
• Publication date: 2008-02-01
• DOI: 10.1038/ncb1682
• EISSN: 1476-4679
• ISSN: 1465-7392
• Language: English
• Keywords: HIV-1; T-Lymphocytes; Intercellular Junctions; Humans; Cell Surface Extensions; Virulence; Jurkat Cells