HIV-1 mRNA electroporation of PBMC: A simple and efficient method to monitor T-cell responses against autologous HIV-1 in HIV-1-infected patients

► HIV-1 mRNA electroporation of PBMC is an efficient method for monitoring of CTL. ► We analyzed CTL recognition of autologous HIV-1 strains in HIV-1-infected patients. ► Recognition of autologous HIV-1 genes was stronger for 4/8 tested genes. ► Use of standard viruses frequently underestimates HIV-1-specific immune response. ► CTL escape can lead to a lower recognition of autologous virus (2/8 cases).