IL-8 Increases Transmission of HIV Type 1 in Cervical Explant Tissue

Interleukin-8 (IL-8) is the predominant cytokine expressed in the female genital tract of women with certain infectious/inflammatory conditions. IL-8 increased HIV-1 replication in T cells and to a greater extent in monocytes/macrophages in vitro. Physiological levels of IL-8 increased susceptibility to HIV-1 infection 5- to 8-fold in cervical explant tissues. Competitive inhibition of the IL-8 receptor CXCR2 with the small molecule inhibitor SB225002 resulted in a 45-70% decrease in cervical explant susceptibility to HIV-1 infection.