TLR7/9 antagonist reduces HIV-1-induced immune activation

Background T cell immune activation is a strong predictor of HIV-1 disease progression and HIV-1 transmission, and IFNalpha production following TLR7 stimulation has been associated with elevated CD8 T cell activation (Meier et al., Nat Med 2009). We therefore hypothesized that modulation of TLR7 stimulation could be used to manipulate IFN-alpha production and subsequently reduce HIV1-associated immune activation. TLR7/9-specific antagonists developed for treatment of auto-immune diseases were used in vitro and in vivo in a humanized mouse model.