CD4⁺ T Cells Are Key to Shaping a Protective Humoral Immunity in Primary Dengue 2 Virus Infection: Implications for Rational Vaccine Design.

ABSTRACT: Background: Understanding the immune mechanisms that differentiate protective from pathogenic responses during dengue virus (DENV) infection is critical for effective vaccine development. Objective: To investigate how CD4⁺ T cell depletion alters viral control and the humoral immune response during primary DENV2 infection in a non-human primate (NHP) model. Methods: Rhesus macaques were depleted of CD4⁺ T cells prior to DENV2 infection. Viral kinetics, B cell activation, antibody specificity, and functional outcomes were evaluated longitudinally, including cross-reactivity and antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) potential. Results: CD4⁺ T cells were essential for early viral clearance and the generation of robust, type-specific

SUBMITTER: Miranda-Santiago AE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12656844 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature