Classically, CD4+ T-cells have been referred as cytokine-producing cells and important players in immune responses by providing soluble factors that potentiate several effector immune functions. However, it is now evident that CD4+ T-cells can also elaborate cytotoxic responses, inducing apoptosis of target cells. Cytotoxic CD4+ T cells (CD4+ CTLs), exhibit cytolytic functions that resemble those of CD8+ T-cells; in fact, there is evidence suggesting that they may have a role in the control of viral infections. In this article, we discuss the role of CD4+ CTLs during HIV infection, where CD4+ CTLs have been associated with viral control and slow disease progression. In addition, we address the implication of CD4+ CTLs in the context of antiretroviral therapy and the partial reconstitution of CD8+ T-cells effector function.

中文翻译：

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HIV感染期间的细胞毒性CD4 + T细胞：目标还是武器？

通常，CD4 + T细胞通过提供可增强多种效应物免疫功能的可溶性因子而被称为产生细胞因子的细胞，并且是免疫反应中的重要角色。但是，现在很明显，CD4 + T细胞也可以发挥细胞毒性反应，诱导靶细胞凋亡。细胞毒性CD4 + T细胞（CD4 + CTL）表现出类似于CD8 + T细胞的溶细胞功能。实际上，有证据表明它们可能在控制病毒感染中起作用。在本文中，我们讨论了CD4 + CTL在HIV感染过程中的作用，其中CD4 + CTL与病毒控制和疾病进展缓慢相关。此外，我们在抗逆转录病毒疗法和CD8 + T细胞效应子功能的部分重建中解决了CD4 + CTL的含义。