The present study attempted to characterize in detail the role of mucosal NK cells, CXCR5+ CD8+ T cells, Tfh cells, soluble immune mediators, antiviral cytokines and chemokines, as well as the composition of the cervicovaginal microbiome in the early control of infection in HIV-exposed seronegative women. The gene discussed is CXCR5; the disease is infection.