HIV-1 chemokine co-receptor CCR5 is expressed on the surface of human spermatozoa

AIDS. 2005 Sep 2;19(13):1424-6. doi: 10.1097/01.aids.0000180809.04427.04.

Abstract

Viruses adhering to the sperm surface are described in the semen of HIV-1-infected individuals, although viral adhesion mechanisms have yet to be fully understood. We demonstrate, by cytometric analysis and immunofluorescence microscopy, the presence of beta-chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) on the periacrosomal region of ejaculated spermatozoa. CCR5 expressed on the sperm cell surface may allow sperm to act as virion cellular carriers during the sexual transmission of HIV-1 infection.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Flow Cytometry
  • HIV-1 / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence
  • Receptors, CCR5 / metabolism*
  • Spermatozoa / metabolism*
  • Spermatozoa / virology

Substances

  • Receptors, CCR5