PSGL-1, an immune checkpoint regulator that promotes T cell exhaustion in chronic viral infection and cancer (VIR10P.1166)

Abstract

Abstract Chronic viruses, including HIV and hepatitis B and C, can survive in humans by inducing T cell dysfunction. Using a murine chronic virus that models human infections, we investigated the function of the adhesion molecule, P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 (PSGL-1) that is upregulated on responding T cells. PSGL-1-deficient mice unexpectedly cleared the virus due to dramatic increases in the intrinsic survival of multifunctional effector T cells that had downregulated PD-1 and other inhibitory receptors. Notably, this response resulted in immunopathology requiring CD4+ T cells. Mechanistically, PSGL-1 ligation on exhausted CD8+ T cells sustained PD-1 expression and diminished their survival during TCR stimulation. In a model of malignant melanoma where T cell dysfunction also occurs, PSGL-1 deficiency led to PD-1 downregulation, improved T cell responses and tumor control. Thus, PSGL-1 not only plays a fundamental role in balancing viral control and immunopathology, but also functions as a checkpoint that regulates T cell function in the tumor microenvironment.