Mucosal Immunology of the genital and gastrointestinal tracts and HIV-1 infection

Abstract

Genital tract is protected predominantly by IgG of local and systemic origin in contrast to the intestinal tract with dominant secretion of IgA. Local immunization or infection induce low immune responses.

Evaluation of HIV-specific antibodies in sera and secretions revealed a selective lack of IgA responses.

Keywords

• HIV-1
• mucosal immunity
• macrophages
• IgA