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Published on: December 2, 2012
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In Vitro Characterization of the Innate Immune Pathways Engaged by Live and Inactivated Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus
Aurora Signorazzi1, Jeroen L A Pennings2, Marilena P Etna3
1Department of Medical Microbiology & Infection Prevention, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713GZ Groningen, The Netherlands.
Vaccines
|July 2, 2021
Summary
The inactivated Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) vaccine component primarily activates an interferon response via RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs). This contrasts with live TBEV, which engages both RLRs and Toll-like receptors for immune sensing.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) causes central nervous system inflammation.
- Whole inactivated virus vaccines effectively prevent TBEV infection.
- Understanding vaccine-induced innate immunity is crucial for optimizing TBEV prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the innate immune response to inactivated TBEV (I-TBEV), the vaccine antigen.
- To compare the immune profile induced by I-TBEV versus live TBEV in vitro.
- To elucidate the pattern recognition receptors involved in sensing I-TBEV.
Main Methods:
- Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were exposed to I-TBEV and live TBEV.
- RNA sequencing was employed to assess cellular responses.
- Pathway-specific inhibitors were used to determine the role of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs).
Main Results:
- Both I-TBEV and live TBEV induced a strong interferon-dominated gene signature.
- RIG-I-like receptor (RLR) expression was significantly upregulated by both viral forms.
- RLR pathway inhibition specifically suppressed I-TBEV-induced responses, while live TBEV responses were affected by RLR and Toll-like receptor inhibition.
Conclusions:
- Inactivated and live TBEV predominantly activate an interferon response in human PBMCs.
- RLRs are the primary PRRs responsible for sensing I-TBEV.
- Distinct PRR engagement mechanisms exist for inactivated versus live TBEV, informing vaccine development.
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