Enumeration of latently infected CD4+ T cells from HIV-1-infected patients using an HIV-1 antigen ELISPOT assay.

Background: Latently infected resting CD4(+) T cells carrying replication-competent HIV-1 are present in naive, chronically infected individuals as well as in those who are receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). These cells serve as a potential source of reactivation of viral replication and remain a major obstacle for the eradication of HIV-1.

Objectives: The enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISPOT) assay was adapted to the detection and the enumeration of HIV-1 antigen-secreting cells at the single cell level.