Human Herpesvirus 6A Induces Dendritic Cell Death and HMGB1 Release without Virus Replication

Human herpesvirus 6A (HHV-6A) is a common virus that has important immunomodulatory effects. Dendritic cells (DC) are key players in innate and adaptive immunity and are implicated in the pathogenesis of many human diseases, including infections. (1) Background: Previous studies have demonstrated suppressive effects of HHV-6A on key DC functions. (2) Methods: human monocyte derived dendritic cells were inoculated with HHV-6A and viral replication, cell viability, and release of high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) protein from DC and of the cytokines IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, TNF and IFN-γ after co-culture with allogenic CD4+ T cells were assessed. (3) Results: Nonproductive infection of HHV-6A in DC leads to titer-dependent cell death and the release of HMGB1 protein, and a Th2 polarization. (4) Conclusion: These immune responses aimed to clear the infection may also imply risks for inflammatory pathologies associated with HHV-6A such as multiple sclerosis.