Expression pattern of co-inhibitory molecules on CMV-specific T-cells in lung transplant patients

Clin Immunol. 2019 Nov:208:108258. doi: 10.1016/j.clim.2019.108258. Epub 2019 Sep 6.

Abstract

Objectives: Cytomegalovirus infection (CMVi) occurs frequently in transplant patients. Co-inhibitory molecules on CMV-specific T-cells (TCMV) in patients after lung transplantation were investigated.

Methods: 59 lung transplant patients were stratified according to anti-CMV serostatus at time of transplantation. The co-inhibitors Programmed-Death-Receptor-1 (PD1) and B-and-T-Lymphocyte-Attenuator (BTLA) were detected on TCMV by flow cytometry (FACS).

Results: TCMV were detectable in CMV sero-positive patients (R+) and in CMV sero-negative patients with a lung graft of a CMV sero-positive donor (D+/R-); in both cases, the frequency of TCMV was higher than in healthy controls (HC). PD-1 on TCMV was increased in D+/R+ and D+/R- patients as compared to HC. BTLA was significantly enhanced on TCMV of D+/R- patients vs. HC. R+ patients with CMV reactivation in the past had an increased fraction of BTLA+ TCMV.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the expression pattern of co-inhibitory molecules on TCMV is altered in patients after lung transplantation.

Keywords: BTLA; Co-inhibitors; Cytomegalovirus; Lung transplant; PD-1; T-cells.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • B7-H1 Antigen / biosynthesis
  • B7-H1 Antigen / immunology
  • Cytomegalovirus / physiology
  • Cytomegalovirus Infections / immunology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host / immunology*
  • Lung Transplantation*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Receptors, Immunologic / biosynthesis
  • Receptors, Immunologic / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology*
  • Virus Activation / immunology*

Substances

  • B7-H1 Antigen
  • BTLA protein, human
  • CD274 protein, human
  • Receptors, Immunologic