Modulation of dendritic cell functions by viral IL-10 encoded by human cytomegalovirus.

Selmir Avdic,Barry Slobedman,Brian P Mcsharry

doi:10.3389/fmicb.2014.00337

Selmir Avdic, Barry Slobedman + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2014.00337

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Abstract

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a clinically important β-herpesvirus, is a master of evasion and modulation of the host immune system, including inhibition of a number of dendritic cell (DC) functions. DCs play a central role in co-ordination of the immune response against pathogens and any disturbance of DCs functions can result in a cascade effect on a range of immune cells. Recently, the HCMV gene UL111A, which encodes viral homologs of human interleukin 10, has been identified as a strong suppressor of a number of DCs functions. In this mini review, we focus on HCMV-encoded viral IL-10-mediated inhibitory effects on DCs and implications for the development of an effective HCMV vaccine.

Highlights

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a clinically important β-herpesvirus, is a master of evasion and modulation of the host immune system, including inhibition of a number of dendritic cell (DC) functions
HCMV establishes a life-long latent infection within myeloid progenitor cells. These precursor cells can differentiate into a number of immune cell types including, monocytes, macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs), that play a vital role in functions such as antigen presentation leading to pathogen control and clearance (Reeves and Sinclair, 2008)
This review will principally focus on the effects of HCMV-encoded viral IL-10 on the function of DCs; cells often referred to as the sentinels of immunity, due to their exceptional ability to stimulate the immune response against pathogens

Summary

Introduction

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a clinically important β-herpesvirus, is a master of evasion and modulation of the host immune system, including inhibition of a number of dendritic cell (DC) functions. HIL-10 has potent and varied effects on DCs. DC exposure to hIL-10 reduces their ability to activate and maintain immune responses, marked by suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokine production, expression of MHC class II and co-stimulatory molecules, DC maturation and ability to stimulate T cells (Hawrylowicz and O’Garra, 2005).

Results

Conclusion