Simian immunodeficiency virus infection potently modulates chemokine networks and immune environments in hilar lymph nodes of cynomolgus macaques.

Background Chemokines provide critical immune cell homing and activation signals that if altered could affect the inflammatory milieu and cellular composition of lymphoid tissues. During HIV-1 and SIV infection, the virus triggers an increase in inflammation/activation, leading to immunodeficiency and development of opportunistic infections, such as in the lungs – a massive interface between the host and the environment.