New Insights into How HIV Resides in Different Human Tissues

Recent research from Western University and the University of Calgary has shed light on the ways HIV persists in various tissues of the human body. By analyzing rare tissue samples collected during the early years of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, scientists discovered that the virus does not integrate randomly into the DNA of infected cells. Instead, it exhibits tissue-specific patterns, embedding itself into particular regions of the genome depending on the organ. For example, in the brain, HIV tends to hide in less active, gene-sparse areas of DNA, effectively evading immune detection and treatment. These findings provide crucial insights into why HIV can remain in the body for decades, even under medication, making eradication challenging.

The study, led by Dr. Stephen Barr from Western's Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry and Dr. Guido van Marle from the University of Calgary, highlighted that the virus leverages unique DNA signatures within different tissues such as the brain, blood, and digestive organs like the stomach and small intestine. This tissue-specific integration is influenced by the local environment and immune responses, which guide where the virus inserts into the host genome.

Using tissue samples from the early 1990s—before modern HIV treatments were available—the researchers could observe the natural behavior of the virus across multiple organs. Their approach provided a rare window into the early dynamics of HIV persistence, helping to identify potential targets for future therapies.

Understanding these integration preferences is pivotal for developing strategies to eliminate HIV reservoirs. By knowing exactly where the virus hides, scientists hope to design targeted therapies that either remove these infected cells or silence the virus’s activity, ultimately advancing efforts toward a cure.

The research also emphasizes the importance of using historical samples to comprehend the long-term behavior of HIV, and acknowledges the bravery of individuals who contributed to early studies despite the social stigma and limited treatment options of that time. The findings were published in Communications Medicined and represent a significant step forward in HIV research.