Determining antigen-specific T cell phenotypes in cases of Hepatitis C virus clearance versus chronic infection.

Abstract Globally, approximately 1.5 million new Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections occur annually. A vaccine to prevent chronic HCV infection would limit transmission and pathogenesis of HCV. To understand immunity in high risk populations, we prospectively followed antibody negative high-risk people who inject drugs (PWIDs) a protocol designed for monthly follow-up. We demonstrated previously that reinfection PWIDs is associated with reduction the magnitude duration viremia versus initial broadened cellular immune responses, consistent protective against disease. have characterized CD8+ HCV-specific T cells from acute phase using dimensional spectral flow cytometry define simultaneous expression 25 intracellular metabolic cell surface molecules. found those progress unique phenotype clusters separately later successfully control Acute subsequently clear an show increased CD127 CXCR3 decreased GLUT1, PD-1 CD39 compared infection. Understanding specific phenotypes successful will guide goals induced Supported by grants NIH (U19 AI159822)