The Rational Combination Strategy of Immunomodulatory Latency Reversing Agents and Novel Immunotherapy to Achieve HIV-1 Cure

Abstract

Abstract. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 infection creates a persistent latent reservoir even after antiretroviral therapy, which is the main barrier to HIV cure. One of the most explored strategies is the use of latent reversal agents (LRAs) to activate HIV latent reservoirs, followed by immunotherapy to remove infected cells. Immunomodulatory LRAs have the dual advantage of activating viral latency and promoting immune cell elimination of HIV-infected cells. The emergence of novel immunotherapies has also enhanced the possibility of HIV clearance. Here we review the activity and potential mechanisms of immunomodulatory agonists and immunotherapies. The possible combinational strategies to achieve HIV functional cure and the problems encountered using this approach are discussed.