Contributions of CD8 T cells to the pathogenesis of mouse adenovirus type 1 respiratory infection

CD8 T cells are key components of the immune response to viruses, but their roles in the pathogenesis of adenovirus respiratory infection have not been characterized. We used mouse adenovirus type 1 (MAV-1) to define CD8 T cell contributions to the pathogenesis of adenovirus respiratory infection. CD8 T cell deficiency in beta 2 m(-/-) mice had no effect on peak viral replication in lungs, but clearance of virus was delayed in beta 2 m(-/-) mice. Virus induced weight loss and increases in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid total protein, IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha, IL-I0, CCL2, and CCL5 concentrations were less in beta 2 m(-/-) mice than in controls. CD8 T cell depletion had similar effects on virus clearance, weight loss, and inflammation. Deficiency of IFN-gamma or performn had no effect on viral replication or inflammation, but perforin-deficient mice were partially protected from weight loss. CD8 T cells promote MAV-1-induced pulmonary inflammation via a mechanism that is independent of direct antiviral effects.