Focused CD8+ T-Cell Responses to Trypanosoma cruzi Strain Variants
Author Information
Author(s): Martin Diana L, Weatherly D. Brent, Laucella Susana A, Cabinian Melissa A, Crim Matthew T, Sullivan Susan, Heiges Mark, Craven Sarah H, Rosenberg Charles S, Collins Matthew H, Sette Alessandro, Postan Miriam, Tarleton Rick L
Primary Institution: Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
Hypothesis
The massive expansion of the trans-sialidase gene family under immunological pressure provides a mechanism of immune escape for Trypanosoma cruzi.
Conclusion
The study shows that CD8+ T-cell responses in T. cruzi infection are highly focused on a small subset of peptides encoded by the trans-sialidase gene family.
Supporting Evidence
- The CD8+ T-cell response is highly focused on epitopes encoded by the trans-sialidase family of genes.
- More than 30% of the CD8+ T-cell response at the peak of infection is specific for two major groups of trans-sialidase peptides.
- Responses to trans-sialidase peptides were especially pronounced in T. cruzi–infected mice.
- Immunodominance patterns vary depending on the infective strain of T. cruzi.
Takeaway
This study found that the immune response to the T. cruzi parasite is mainly directed at a few specific proteins, even though the parasite has a very large number of genes.
Methodology
The study involved screening for dominant parasite peptides recognized by CD8+ T cells in T. cruzi–infected mice and humans.
Limitations
The immunodominance patterns may vary depending on the infective strain of T. cruzi.
Participant Demographics
17 HLA-A2.1+ chronic chagasic subjects from Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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