Enhanced FCGR2A and FCGR3A signaling by HIV viremic controller IgG.

HIV-1 viremic controllers (VC) spontaneously control infection without antiretroviral treatment. Several studies indicate that IgG Abs from VCs induce enhanced responses from immune effector cells. Since signaling through Fc-γ receptors (FCGRs) modulate these Ab-driven responses, here we examine if enhanced FCGR activation is a common feature of IgG from VCs.

HIV-1 Vpu antagonism of tetherin inhibits antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxic responses by natural killer cells.

Unlabelled: The type I interferon-inducible factor tetherin retains virus particles on the surfaces of cells infected with vpu-deficient human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). While this mechanism inhibits cell-free viral spread, the immunological implications of tethered virus have not been investigated. We found that surface tetherin expression increased the antibody opsonization of vpu-deficient HIV-infected cells.

Urine processing impacts uric acid level in HIV-infected adults: implications for diagnosing tenofovir-associated proximal tubulopathy.

Urine specimens are valuable to investigate kidney disease and antiretroviral nephrotoxicity. We observed large rust-colored pellets in some urine specimens after overnight storage at 4°C. Testing of supernatant under varying conditions demonstrated that this phenomenon reflects supersaturation and precipitation of uric acid in samples with high uric acid concentration.