T cells in the central nervous system: The delicate balance between viral clearance and disease

Dorian B. McGavern, Dirk Homann, Michael B.A. Oldstone

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

48 Scopus citations

Abstract

The central nervous system (CNS) is considered an "immunoprivileged" site with restricted access and a unique microenvironment that profoundly affects the capacity of T cells to exert their functions. The lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus model offers a unique system in which to evaluate the contrasting roles of specific T cells in causing lethal CNS disease or curing pervasive and life-long CNS infection. Specific T cell kinetics in the periphery is briefly discussed. The T cell-mediated mechanisms leading to fatal choriomeningitis are reviewed as are recent methodologic advances that will facilitate the study of antigen-specific T cells in disease pathogenesis. Understanding the specific constraints imposed by the CNS on local T cell activity has important consequences for the design of therapeutic strategies aimed at preventing or curing CNS infection.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)S145-S151
JournalJournal of Infectious Diseases
Volume186
Issue numberSUPPL. 2
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Dec 2002
Externally publishedYes

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