LAG-3- and CXCR5-expressing CD4 T cells display progenitor-like properties during chronic visceral leishmaniasis
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ABSTRACT: In chronic infections, sustaining the CD4 T cell responses is crucial for pathogen clearance. The expression of inhibitory receptors such as LAG-3 or Lymphocyte activation gene 3 is usually associated with immune suppression and T cell exhaustion. However, LAG-3 also serves as an immune checkpoint molecule and is implicated in proliferation control and cell survival. In this study, we have utilized a mouse model of visceral leishmaniasis (VL), to characterize a subset of LAG-3- and CXCR5-expressing CD4 T cells. These LAG-3+CXCR5+PD-1lo/int CD4 T cells exist in naïve mice, they expand during VL, and are antigen specific. Importantly, the RNAseq analysis showed that these cells highly express gene signatures associated with self-renewal capacity, indicating that these cells might act as progenitors. Additionally, upon adoptive transfer into Rag1-/- mice followed by challenge with Leishmania donovani, these LAG-3+CXCR5+ PD-1lo/int CD4 T cells gave rise to different types of T effector and regulatory subsets, demonstrating their differentiation potential. These cells were also observed in mice infected with LCMV clone-13 and Heligmosomoides polygyrus bakeri. In summary, we propose that these LAG-3+CXCR5+ PD-1lo/int CD4 T cells that exhibit progenitor-like capacities could be implicated in maintaining CD4 T cell responses in chronic infections.
ORGANISM(S): Mus musculus
PROVIDER: GSE255333 | GEO | 2024/02/13
REPOSITORIES: GEO
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