Brain organoids for HIV research
2020
University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, USA
The infection with HIV-1 can result in HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND), which is characterized by neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration and results in cognitive impairment of affected patients. The aim of this study was to develop a brain-representative in-vitro system to investigate the molecular events underlying HIV neuropathogenesis.
Therefore, a three-dimensional (3D) human brain organoid (hBORG) model containing major cell types important for HIV-1 neuropathogenesis; in particular neurons and astrocytes, was developed. The ability of these hBORGs to support HIV-1 infection as well as to recapitulate the hallmarks of central nervous system (CNS) pathology seen in HIV-1 patients was investigated by incorporating HIV-infected primary microglia. Incorporation of HIV-infected microglia resulted in inflammatory response and induced damage to neurons and astrocytes, which represents major hallmark features seen in the CNS of HIV-1 infected individuals.
This model offers great promise for basic understanding of how HIV-1 infection alters the CNS and induces pathological changes, paving the way for discovery of biomarkers and new therapeutic targets.
Modeling HIV‑1 neuropathogenesis using three‑dimensional human brain organoids (hBORGs) with HIV‑1 infected microglia
Shilpa Sant, Velpandi Ayyavoo
Added on: 04-03-2023
[1] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-72214-0
