GB virus C: the good boy virus?

Trends Microbiol. 2012 Mar;20(3):124-30. doi: 10.1016/j.tim.2012.01.004. Epub 2012 Feb 8.

Abstract

GB virus C (GBV-C) is a lymphotropic human virus discovered in 1995 that is related to hepatitis C virus (HCV). GBV-C infection has not been convincingly associated with any disease; however, several studies found an association between persistent GBV-C infection and improved survival in HIV-positive individuals. GBV-C infection modestly alters T cell homeostasis in vivo through various mechanisms, including modulation of chemokine and cytokine release and receptor expression, and by diminution of T cell activation, proliferation and apoptosis, all of which may contribute to improved HIV clinical outcomes. In vitro studies confirm these clinical observations and demonstrate an anti-HIV replication effect of GBV-C. This review summarizes existing data on potential mechanisms by which GBV-C interferes with HIV, and the research needed to capitalize on this epidemiological observation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Flaviviridae Infections / immunology
  • Flaviviridae Infections / virology*
  • GB virus C / genetics
  • GB virus C / immunology
  • GB virus C / physiology*
  • HIV Infections / immunology
  • HIV Infections / virology*
  • HIV-1 / physiology
  • Humans
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes / virology
  • Virus Replication