Back to Search
Start Over
Interleukin-8 (CXCL8) production is a signatory T cell effector function of human newborn infants
- Source :
- Nature Medicine. October 1, 2014, Vol. 20 Issue 10, p1206, 6 p.
- Publication Year :
- 2014
-
Abstract
- In spite of their precipitous encounter with the environment, newborn infants cannot readily mount T helper type 1 ([T.sub.H].1) cell antibacterial and antiviral responses. Instead, they show skewing toward [T.sub.H].2 responses, which, together with immunoregulatoiy functions, are thought to limit the potential for inflammatory damage, while simultaneously permitting intestinal colonization by commensals (1-3). However, these collective capabilities account for relatively few T cells. Here we demonstrate that a major T cell effector function in human newborns is interleukin-8 (CXCL8) production, which has the potential to activate antimicrobial neutrophils and γδ T cells. CXCL8 production was provoked by antigen receptor engagement of T cells that are distinct from those few cells producing [T.sub.H]1, [T.sub.H]2 and [T.sub.H]17 cytokines, was co-stimulated by Toll-like receptor signaling, and was readily apparent in preterm babies, particularly those experiencing neonatal infections and severe pathology. By contrast, CXCL8-producing T cells were rare in adults, and no equivalent function was evident in neonatal mice. CXCL8 production counters the widely held view that T lymphocytes in very early life are intrinsically anti-inflammatory, with implications for immune monitoring, immune interventions (including vaccination) and immunopathologies. It also emphasizes qualitative distinctions between infants' and adults' immune systems.<br />Although early survival of preterm infants has improved, late-onset septicemias or severe complications such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) have increased as causes of mortality and long-term morbidity (4-6). Yet relatively [...]
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 10788956
- Volume :
- 20
- Issue :
- 10
- Database :
- Gale General OneFile
- Journal :
- Nature Medicine
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- edsgcl.386613366