Profiling gene expression differences and immune cell populations in HIV exposed seronegative individuals [HESN] and seroconverters

With more than 1.8 million deaths per year, HIV remains the most devastating disease around the globe. Disease and death in HIV patients can be attributed to various factors including the inability of the host immune system to independently suppress or clear the infection. However, some studies show that few individuals [HESN] do not become infected after continued and prolonged exposure without the aid of Antiretroviral.  In some cases, individuals can resist infection after repeated and prolonged exposure but eventually acquire the virus (seroconverters). The mechanisms of host defense to HIV infection in HESN and seroconverters are not fully understood, but immune responses to the virus are well documented. Utilizing microarray technology and flow cytometry, this study will profile and elucidate gene expression differences and immune cell populations in both HESN and seroconverters. Results of this study will enable better understanding of host resistance to HIV infection which is critical to vaccine and drug development.