The Role of Innate Cells During Alphavirus Chikungunya Infection

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Immunology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a mosquito-borne alphavirus causing significant public health issues.
• CHIKV infection leads to severe symptoms, impacting quality of life and socioeconomic factors.
• Understanding host immune responses is vital for managing CHIKV epidemics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of innate immune cells in CHIKV infection.
• To explore mechanisms of antiviral defense and pathological inflammation.
• To identify knowledge gaps in CHIKV-host interactions.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of innate immune responses to CHIKV.
• Synthesis of evidence on CHIKV-infected innate cell types.
• Analysis of mechanisms driving antiviral defense and chronic disease.

Main Results:

• Innate immune cells like fibroblasts, dendritic cells, macrophages, monocytes, neutrophils, and NK cells are primary targets of CHIKV.
• These cells mount rapid antiviral defenses but can also drive pathological inflammation.
• Excessive inflammation and cell infiltration contribute to chronic joint pain (arthralgia).

Conclusions:

• Innate immune cells play a dual role in CHIKV infection, mediating both defense and pathology.
• Targeting innate immune responses may offer therapeutic strategies for CHIKV.
• Further research is needed to address gaps in understanding CHIKV-host interactions and chronic disease mechanisms.