Cutting edge: antigen presentation to CD8 T cells after influenza A virus infection

Influenza A virus infection induces massive inflammation and lung damage. Activation of CD8 T cells by dendritic cells (DCs) is necessary to control disease. We undertook studies to track directly Ag presentation to CD8 T cells in vivo through the first 72 h after infection with OVA-expressing influenza A virus. We found that Ag presentation by DCs occurs strictly in the draining lymph nodes and not within the lung itself. Surprisingly, Ag presentation was found to be mediated by a CD11b(+) DC population. Finally, the expression of antigenic complexes on DCs correlated with the location and timing of CD8 T cell activation. These results have implications for approaches to control influenza A virus infection.