Comparative analysis of IFN-Iproduction and Th differentiation related molecules subjected to EV71 and CA16 infections in CD1c+ DC from rhesus monkey

Abstract

Objective To investigate enterovirus 71 (EV71) and coxsackievirus A16 (CA16) infections in a cell model of CD1c+ DC from rhesus monkey and to analyze the differences in typeⅠ interferon (IFN-Ⅰ) production and T helper cells(Th) differentiation related molecules following infections. Methods A comparative analysis was performed to analyze differences in IFN-Ⅰ expression, virus copies, plaque forming units (PFUs) of virus, numbers of virus infection, and expression of the transcription factors and cytokines related to the Th differentiation at different time points following EV71 and CA16 infections in CD1c+ DC by using immunofluorescence, qRT-PCR, plaque formation assay and flow cytometry. Results EV71 and CA16 could infect CD1c+ DC derived from rhesus monkey. After infecting CD1c+ DC with EV71, the expression of IFN-Ⅰwas significantly decreased; virus copies, PFUs of virus and numbers of virus infection were increased; the expression of transcription factors and cytokines related to Th2 and follicular helper T cells (Tfh) were markedly increased. However, remarkably enhanced expression of IFN-Ⅰ, down-regulated virus copies, PFUs of virus and numbers of virus infection as well as significantly up-regulated expression of transcription factors and cytokines related to Th1 and regulatory T cells (Tregs) were detected following CA16 infection. Conclusion This study suggests that the differences in innate and adaptive immunity caused by EV71 and CA16 infections in CD1c+ DC might be closely associated with the distinct clinical symptoms and different pathogenesis of HFMD. Key words: Enterovirus 71; Coxsakievirus A16; Hand foot and mouth disease; Dendritic cells; Immune response