Work

The Role of PD-1 in Acute and Chronic Infection

Year: 2020

Type: article

Abstract: PD-1 as an immune checkpoint molecule down-regulates T cell activity during immune responses in order to prevent autoimmune tissue damage. In chronic infections or tumors, lasting antigen-exposure leads to permanent PD-1 expression that can limit immune-mediated clearance of pathogens or degenerated cells. Blocking PD-1 can enhance T cell function; in cancer treatment PD-1 blockade is already used as a successful therapy. However, the role of PD-1 expression and blocking in the context of acute and chronic infections is less defined. Building on its success in cancer therapy leads to the hypothesis that blocking PD-1 in infectious diseases is also beneficial in acute or chronic infections. This review will focus on the role of PD-1 expression in acute and chronic infections with virus, bacteria, and parasites, with a particular focus on recent studies regarding PD-1 blockade in infectious diseases.

Source: Frontiers in Immunology

Authors: Jil M. Jubel, Zachary R. Barbati, Christof Burger, Dieter C. Wirtz, Frank A. Schildberg

Institutions: University of Bonn, University Hospital Bonn, Tufts University

Language: English

Topic: Cancer Immunotherapy and Biomarkers

Subfield: Oncology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,950

Funders: National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Multiple Sclerosis Society