Dissemination of HIV-1 and HCV is directed by Langerhans cells Interplay between receptors

The research described in this thesis provides understanding of the function of immune cells at mucosal surfaces, the primary entry site of sexually transmitted viruses. It describes the intricate interplay between sexual transmitted pathogens HIV-1 and hepatitis C virus and the diverse function of Langerhans cells that induce, sustain and regulate immune responses. The research has identified intrinsic and extrinsic factors that control the outcome of virus infection and dissemination e.g. regulation and expression of different attachment receptors, the microenvironment, inflammatory conditions, cell activation state, coinfections, the composition of genital fluids but also the phenotype of the virus. Understanding how the interplay between receptors on Langerhans cells dictates virus susceptibility provide new insights into the function of Langerhans cells at the site of initial infection and contributes to our understanding of viral spread in the human population. Fundamental understanding of the biology of Langerhans cells may direct the development of novel therapeutic targets in the future to restrain the dissemination of sexually transmitted viruses.