Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 28, 2026

Isolation of Lymphocytes from Mouse Genital Tract Mucosa
Published on: September 3, 2012
Protective immunity against herpes simplex virus generated by DNA vaccination compared to natural infection
P H Nass1, K L Elkins, J P Weir
1Laboratory of DNA Viruses, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
Abstract:
To evaluate the utility of plasmid DNA vaccination against disease caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV), we compared the strength of protection against lethal challenge following natural virus infection with that following vaccination with a plasmid encoding HSV glycoprotein gD (gD-DNA). We further determined the cellular basis of each type of protection using lymphocyte deficient knockout mice. Establishment of immunity to HSV using live virus immunization required CD8+ T cells and B cells, but not CD4+ or gamma/delta+ T cells, and was related to specific antibody levels; surprisingly, CD4 knockout mice had large quantities of IgG anti-HSV serum antibodies. Establishment of immunity to HSV using gD-DNA immunization approached the strength of that generated following sublethal infection, but was dependent on alpha/beta+ CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, B cells, and even partially on gamma/delta+ T cells, and not strictly correlated with antibody levels.
Related Concept Videos
Vaccinations
Immunological Memory
What is Immunological Memory?
Immunological memory is an integral function of the immune system that allows it to recognize and react more rapidly and effectively to pathogens previously encountered. This feature is...
Active versus Passive Immunity
Active Immunity
Active immunity refers to the resistance one develops...
Immune Response Against Viral Pathogens
NK Cells
NK cells are a crucial part of our innate immune system, acting as the first line of defense against viral infections. These cells can recognize and kill infected cells without prior exposure to the virus, effectively slowing down the spread of infection. Additionally, NK cells produce proinflammatory...
Vaccines
Herpes

