Swift and Strong NK Cell Responses Protect 129 Mice against High-Dose Influenza Virus Infection

It is generally unclear what roles NK cells play during influenza virus infection with regard to different host genetic backgrounds. In this study, we show that in six inbred mouse strains, NK cells play an important protective role only in 129 mice during high-dose influenza A H1N1 virus infection. Swift and strong NK cell responses efficiently control early pulmonary viral replication in 129 mice, providing survival privilege. In addition, we identified that early activation of TLRs and RIG-I signaling in 129 mice resulted in quick production of type 1 IFNs and inflammatory cytokines, which are important reasons for the swift kinetics of NK cell responses post influenza virus infection. Thus, under different microenvironments, NK cells play differential roles against viral infections. The kinetics and magnitude of NK cell responses correlate with the distinct roles that NK cells play against influenza virus infections. Thus, our works further our understandings about the complex role of NK cells during influenza virus infection.