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Systemic T cell expansion during localized viral infection.
J B Haanen1, M Toebes, T A Cordaro
1Division of Immunology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam.
European Journal of Immunology
|May 6, 1999
Summary
The spleen, not just lymph nodes, is crucial for mounting immune responses to local infections. This finding highlights the spleen's significant role in generating cytotoxic T cells and forming immune memory.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Cellular Biology
Background:
- Traditional models suggest local immune responses primarily occur in draining lymphoid tissues.
- Previous studies relied on indirect methods like limiting dilution analyses to quantify antigen-specific T cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distribution and expansion of antigen-specific CD8+ T cells in secondary lymphoid organs during local viral infections.
- To compare the spleen's role versus draining lymph nodes in T cell responses against influenza A virus and herpes simplex virus-1.
Main Methods:
- Utilized tetrameric MHC class I complexes for direct enumeration of antigen-specific CD8+ T cells.
- Infected mice intranasally with influenza A virus and intradermally with herpes simplex virus-1.
- Monitored T cell populations in spleen and draining lymph nodes.
Main Results:
- The spleen contained approximately 50-fold more antigen-specific cytotoxic T cells than draining lymph nodes, despite local infections.
- Spleen-resident T cells showed active division, indicating a robust response.
- A distinct population of antigen-specific T cells in the spleen was identified, contributing to memory T cell formation.
Conclusions:
- The spleen plays a major, previously underestimated role in immune responses to local viral infections.
- This splenic T cell compartment is vital for establishing immune memory and potentially preventing systemic infection spread.
- Revises the understanding of immune cell trafficking and response initiation during localized viral challenges.