The testis and epididymis are productively infected by SIV and SHIV in juvenile macaques during the post-acute stage of infection

Abstract

Background: Little is known about the progression and pathogenesis of HIV-1 infection within the male genital tract (MGT), particularly during the early stages of infection. Results: To study HIV pathogenesis in the testis and epididymis, 12 juvenile monkeys (Macacca nemestrina, 4-4.5 years old) were infected with Simian Immunodeficiency Virus mac 251 (SIVmac251) (n = 6) or Simian/Human Immunodeficiency Virus (SHIVmn229) (n = 6). Testes and epididymides were collected and examined by light microscopy and electron microscopy, at weeks 11-13 (SHIV) and 23 (SIV) following infection. Differences were found in the maturation status of the MGT of the monkeys, ranging from prepubertal (lacking post..