The role of regulatory T cells in immunopathogenesis and immunotherapy of viral infections

Infect Genet Evol. 2018 Apr:59:32-37. doi: 10.1016/j.meegid.2018.01.015. Epub 2018 Feb 4.

Abstract

Two hepatotropic viruses hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) have been considered as the main cause of chronic viral infections. In addition, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) attacks the immune system by eradication of some white blood cell (T-helper cell). The role of Tregs in HCV, HBV and HIV infections ranges from suppressing antiviral T cell responses to protecting tissues as liver and immune cells from immune mediated injury. In this review, we discuss the influence of regulatory T cells in immunopathology of specific viral infections including HCV, HBV and HIV by focusing on targeting Tregs as novel approach in vaccinology against viral infections.

Keywords: Pathogenesis; Regulatory T cells; Viral infection.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Host-Pathogen Interactions / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory* / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory* / virology
  • Viral Vaccines
  • Virus Diseases / immunology*
  • Virus Diseases / prevention & control
  • Virus Diseases / virology

Substances

  • Viral Vaccines