BTLA.pdf (3.28 MB)
Download fileBTLA exhibits immune memory for αβ T cells in patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis
journal contribution
posted on 13.01.2016, 00:00 authored by J-C Zeng, D-Z Lin, L-L Yi, G-B Lui, H. Zhang, W-D Wang, J-A ZhangDespite past extensive studies, the role of B and T lymphocyte attenuator (BTLA) in αβ T cells in patients
with active pulmonary tuberculosis (ATB) remains poorly understood. Here we demonstrate that BTLA expression on
αβ T cells is decreased in patients with M. tuberculosis (Mtb) infection. Particularly, BTLA expression levels are likely
critical for αβ T cells to manifest and maintain an active central memory phenotype with high capacity for secretion
of IFN-γ and perforin, which are important for immune memory against TB infection. BTLAhigh αβ T cells also exhibited
higher capacity in response to Mtb peptide stimulation. In contrast to the role of BTLA played for negative regulation
of immune responses, our data in the current studies suggest that BTLA expression on αβ T cells is likely associated
with protective immune memory against Mtb infection in the setting of patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis.
This previous unappreciated role for BTLA may have implications for prevention and treatment of patients with Mtb
infection.