Hepatitis B virus/human immunodeficiency virus coinfection: interaction among human immunodeficiency virus infection, chronic hepatitis B virus infection, and host immunity

Abstract

Objective: This review discusses progress in the studies of hepatitis B virus (HBV)/human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) coinfection and focuses on the interaction among HIV infection, chronic HBV infection, and host immunity.

Data sources: Data and studies published mainly from 2008 to 2011 were selected using PubMed.

Study selection: Original articles and critical reviews concerning HBV/HIV coinfection and HBV and HIV pathogenesis were selected.

Results: HIV may accelerate HBV progression by lowering CD4 count, weakening HBV-specific immunity, "enriching" HBV mutants, causing immune activation, etc. On the other hand, HBV may enhance HIV replication by activating HIV long terminal repeat (LTR) with X protein (HBX) and cause immune activation in synergy with HIV. Paradoxically, HBV may also inhibit HIV dissemination via dendritic cells.

Conclusions: The interaction among HIV, HBV, and host immunity remains poorly understood. Further research is warranted to elucidate the detailed molecular mechanisms and to translate these mechanisms into clinical practice.