Hepatitis C virus inhibits CD4 T cell function via binding to Toll-like receptor 7

Antiviral Res. 2017 Jan:137:108-111. doi: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2016.11.013. Epub 2016 Nov 19.

Abstract

Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) is a ssRNA receptor that activates dendritic cells and macrophages upon ssRNA binding; however, little is known of its role in CD4+ T cells. We show here that hepatitis C virus (HCV) induces a dose dependent inhibition of cytokine production and expression of activation markers in CD4 T cells, which were restored by a TLR7-specific antagonist. These findings indicate that HCV induces CD4 T cell impairment via TLR7 which may contribute to failure of virus eradication, casting doubts on the use of TLR7 agonists to boost innate immunity in chronic RNA virus infections.

Keywords: CD4; HCV; IRS661; Imiquimod; TLR7.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes / drug effects
  • CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes / immunology*
  • CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes / metabolism
  • CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes / virology*
  • Cytokines / biosynthesis
  • Hepacivirus / physiology*
  • Hepatitis C / virology
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Innate
  • RNA, Viral / metabolism*
  • Toll-Like Receptor 7 / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Toll-Like Receptor 7 / immunology
  • Toll-Like Receptor 7 / metabolism*

Substances

  • Cytokines
  • RNA, Viral
  • Toll-Like Receptor 7