Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2003. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date. Several years ago studies had been done regarding the thymus gland producing new T-cells...are there any new and updated studies on this subject of being able to find a way for the production of new CD4 T-Cells? I am in need of finding a way to 'BIRTH' new T-Cells as my count is low.
Thank you for your assistance in this concern.
Marty Markowitz, M. D.
Clinical Director
Staff Investigator, Aaron Diamond AIDS Research Center
Associate Professor, Rockefeller University
Despite many years of study, the understanding of T cell homeostasis in the HIV infected individual remains somewhat unclear.
Most people who take HAART have a virologic response that is accompanied by an increase in CD4+ T cells. It is believed that treatment reduces T cell death and T cell proliferation and enhances the survival of naive CD4+ T cells.
There are some who despite control of viremia with HAART remain CD4 depleted. The only treatment available for this is IL-2. IL-2 causes T cells to proliferate. The side effects of IL-2 are significant. Furthermore, IL-2 should be used in conjunction with optimal HAART regimens...it is not recommended if there is uncontrolled viral replication. There are currently NO medications that stimulate the thymus to make naive CD4+ T cells.
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