INTERACTION OF HUMAN CYTOMEGALOVIRUS WITH MONOCYTES MACROPHAGES - A LOVE-HATE-RELATIONSHIP/

This review addresses the complex interactions of human cytomegaloviru s (CMV) with the phagocytic mononuclear cell system. Certain aspects m ay be Supplemented with observations made in animal systems. An attemp t will be made to summarize information acquired through in vivo studi es about the distribution of CMV in the mononuclear phagocyte cells, t he state of the virus in such cells and the reactivation of virus in t his setting. Much information has been gained through in vitro experim entation attempting to elucidate the infectability of and replication in monocytes/macrophages, and the role played by cellular differentiat ion in these events. The influence of CMV infection on the generation of macrophages and granulocytes from bone marrow progenitors will also be examined. The modifications of host cell function induced by CMV i nfection, notably the production of cytokines and antigen presentation will be examined. The possible significance of CMV infection of monoc ytes/macrophages relative to viral dissemination, immunosuppression, a nd hematological modifications associated with CMV infection will be d iscussed.