Innate-like behavior of human invariant natural killer T cells during herpes simplex virus infection

Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells, CD1d restricted T cells, are involved in the immune responses against various infection agents. Here we describe their behavior during reactivation of human herpes simplex virus (HSV). iNKT cells exhibit only discrete changes, which however, reached statistically significant level due to the relatively large patient group. Higher percentage of iNKT cells express NKG2D. iNKT cells down-regulate NKG2A in a subset of patients. Finally, iNKT cells enhance their capacity to produce TNF-α. Our data suggests that iNKT cells are involved in the immune response against HSV and contribute mainly to its early, innate phase.

► Phenotype and function of iNKT was examined during herpes simplex virus infection.
► iNKT cells up-regulate NKG2D and down-regulate NKG2A in a subgroup of patients.
► iNKT cells enhance their capacity to produce TNF-α.
► These changes are reminiscent of behavior of NK cells during viral infections.
► iNKT cells are involved in the response against HSV and contribute to its innate phase.