Microbiome Studies in Non-human Primates

Curr HIV/AIDS Rep. 2021 Dec;18(6):527-537. doi: 10.1007/s11904-021-00584-9. Epub 2021 Nov 4.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Observations of differing bacterial, intestinal microbiomes in people living with HIV have propelled interest in contributions of the microbiome to HIV disease. Non-human primate (NHP) models of HIV infection provide a controlled setting for assessing contributions of the microbiome by standardizing environmental confounders. We provide an overview of the findings of microbiome contributions to aspects of HIV disease derived from these animal models.

Recent findings: Observations of differing bacterial, intestinal microbiomes are inconsistently observed in the NHP model following SIV infection. Differences in lentiviral susceptibility and vaccine efficacy have been attributed to variations in the intestinal microbiome; however, by-and-large, these differences have not been experimentally assessed. Although compelling associations exist, clearly defined contributions of the microbiome to HIV and SIV disease are lacking. The empirical use of comprehensive multi-omics assessments and longitudinal and interventional study designs in NHP models is necessary to define this contribution more clearly.

Keywords: Dysbiosis; HIV; Microbiome; Non-human primate; SIV.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Gastrointestinal Microbiome*
  • HIV Infections*
  • Humans
  • Microbiota*
  • Primates
  • Simian Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome*
  • Simian Immunodeficiency Virus*
  • Vaccine Efficacy