Gamma delta T cell receptor-bearing lymphocytes during Epstein-Barr virus infection.
Lymphocytes bearing gamma delta T cell receptors (TCR) constitute a minor subpopulation of human peripheral blood lymphocytes. Their role and function during microbial infections are largely unknown. In 10 patients with Epstein-Barr virus-induced infectious mononucleosis, the gamma delta TCR-expressing T cell population expanded during the acute phase. These cells were largely delta TCS1-, CD4-, and CD8- but expressed activation antigens such as human leukocyte antigen-DR and CD38. The convalescent phase of infectious mononucleosis was characterized by a relative persistence of gamma delta T cells. Together these data suggest a possible role of gamma delta T cells in the control of primary Epstein-Barr virus infection in humans.
De Paoli
P
P
Department of Microbiology and Immunology, General Hospital, Pordenone, Italy.
Gennari
D
D
Martelli
P
P
Cavarzerani
V
V
Comoretto
R
R
Santini
G
G
D000208:Acute Disease; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002469:Cell Separation; D002908:Chronic Disease; D005434:Flow Cytometry; D006801:Humans; D007244:Infectious Mononucleosis / Q000097:blood / Q000276:immunology*; D011948:Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell / Q000032:analysis* / Q000276:immunology; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology*
D011948:Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell