Related Experiment Videos
Memory CD8+ T cells are required for protection from persistent hepatitis C virus infection
Naglaa H Shoukry1, Arash Grakoui, Michael Houghton
1Center for Vaccines and Immunity, Columbus Children's Research Institute, Columbus, OH 43205, USA.
The Journal of Experimental Medicine
|June 18, 2003
Summary
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) reinfection is controlled by memory CD8+ T cells. These cells are crucial for long-term protection against chronic HCV infection, as demonstrated in chimpanzee studies.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Hepatology
Background:
- Spontaneous resolution of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infections is rare but confers immunity.
- Mechanisms of viral control in individuals with prior HCV exposure are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of memory helper and cytotoxic T lymphocytes in protection against Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) reinfection.
- To elucidate the mechanisms of viral control in immune individuals after serial HCV infections.
Main Methods:
- Serial HCV infection in chimpanzees.
- Assessment of CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses.
- Antibody-mediated depletion of CD8+ T cells.
- Monitoring of viral load and T cell kinetics.
Main Results:
- First HCV infection clearance coincided with delayed CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses.
- Second HCV infection was rapidly controlled within 14 days, linked to liver-resident CD8+ T cell activity.
- Depletion of memory CD8+ T cells before a third infection prolonged viral replication, despite memory CD4+ T cell presence.
Conclusions:
- Memory CD8+ T cells play an essential role in controlling acute Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection.
- These cells are critical for long-term protection against the development of chronic HCV infection.