Dengue virus-specific CD8+ T cell (DENV CD8+ T cell)

Dengue virus-specific CD8+ T cells are a specialized population of cytotoxic T lymphocytes that recognize and eliminate cells infected with the Dengue virus (DENV). These cells identify viral peptide epitopes, primarily from non-structural proteins like NS3 and NS5, which are presented on the cell surface by MHC class I molecules [1][2]. Upon recognition, they release cytotoxic molecules such as perforin and granzymes to induce apoptosis in the target cell, while also secreting pro-inflammatory cytokines like IFN-gamma to inhibit viral replication [3]. While these cells are essential for clearing the virus, their role in disease is complex; cross-reactive T cells from a previous infection can sometimes contribute to severe dengue through "original antigenic sin," leading to excessive cytokine release and vascular leakage [4]. Consequently, these cells are a primary target for vaccine development, where the goal is to elicit a broad and protective response against all four DENV serotypes [5]. Monitoring these cells via biomarkers like IFN-gamma production or tetramer staining is crucial for evaluating vaccine efficacy and understanding the risk of immunopathology.

Other names

Dengue-reactive CD8+ T cellsDengue virus-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytesDENV-specific CD8+ T cellsDengue epitope-specific CD8+ T cells

Vaccine-mediated induction of memory CD8+ T cells that recognize DENV peptide epitopes presented by MHC class I molecules, leading to the targeted lysis of infected cells and the secretion of antiviral cytokines.