NK-pDC cross-talk leads to the generation of mTRAIL+IFN-α+cytotoxic pDCs following HIV-1 infection of pDCs. Consequences on the control of viral replication

Background Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) play a central role in orchestrating innate and adaptive immunity, especially by secreting large amounts of IFN-a in response to viral stimuli. IFN-a production by pDCs depends upon a cross-talk with NK cells that triggers the activation of NK cells. Considering that NK cells are essential for the elimination of virus-infected cells, and pDC required for their antiviral activity, we addressed the impact of HIV on NK-pDC cross-talk, and the consequences on viral control.