Androgens suppress antigen-specific T cell responses and IFN-gamma production during intracranial LCMV infection

作者：Lin Adora A; Wojciechowski Sara E; Hildeman David A^*

来源：Journal of Neuroimmunology, 2010, 226(1-2): 8-19.

DOI：10.1016/j.jneuroim.2010.05.026

• Viral infection
• Neuroimmunology
• Cytokines
• T cells
• MHC II
• Androgens

Intracranial (i.c.) lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) infection of mice results in T cell-driven anorexia and weight loss, which is diminished in males compared to females. We investigated sex-specific effects on antigen-presenting cells (APCs) and T cells after i.c. LCMV infection. Numbers of LCMV-specific T cells, APC activation, and levels of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in CSF were decreased in males compared to females. Orchidectomy enhanced these immune parameters in males, while dihydrotestosterone treatment of orchidectomized males and intact females decreased some of these parameters. These data suggest that qualitative and quantitative effects of androgens on APCs and T cells may contribute to the well-known, but poorly understood sex differences in immunity and autoimmunity.

• 出版日期2010-9-14