HIV-1 infection can lead to immune activation via TLR stimulation. Immune activation in chronic HIV-1 infection can occur through several mechanisms. These include the stimulation of plasmacytoid dendritic cells by HIV-1–encoded TLR7 ligands, inducing production of IFN|ga and other proinflammatory cytokines that can lead to immune activation. Additionally, microbial translocation in the gut has been well described in chronic HIV-1 infection, and elevated serum levels of LPS can cause immune activation via TLR4 stimulation.