Publications

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2024 School of Allied Health Sciences Elite Journal of Nursing and Health Sciences

B Cell Deficiency and Implications in HIV Pathogenesis: Unraveling the Complex Interplay

Emmanuel Ifeanyi Obeagu1, Amaeze Augustine Amaeze2, I.S.I. Ogbu3 and Getrude Uzoma Obeagu4

This review delves into the intricate relationship between B cell deficiency and its profound implications in the pathogenesis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. As a key component of the adaptive immune system, B cells orchestrate humoral immunity through antibody production and antigen presentation. In the context of HIV, B cell dysfunction manifests in quantitative and qualitative impairments, influencing the natural course of the disease. The compromised B cell function in HIV is associated with a diminished antibody response, characterized by alterations in B cell receptor repertoire and reduced neutralization capacity. This deficiency not only hampers the host's ability to control viral replication but also contributes to persistent viremia and chronic inflammation, accelerating disease progression and fostering a pro-inflammatory environment. Harnessing the potential of B cells to generate robust and durable antibody responses may offer promising avenues for enhancing the immune control of HIV and addressing the global health challenges posed by the virus.