Equilibrium state of T helper type 17 cells and Treg cells with human immunodeficiency virus infection

T helper type 17 cells(Th17) and Treg cells are all derived from CD4+ T cells. Their roles in the body' s immune response are basically opposite. Th17 cells promote the immune responses, though Treg cells suppress it. Under normal circumstances, the equilibrium state between them could maintain the immunologic balance of the body. HTV infection may break the balance and lead to disease progression. However, HAART may restore balance. The relations of Th17 and Treg cells' equilibrium state with HIV infection is reviewed in this article. Key words: HIV;  Lymphocytes; IL-17; FoxP3