Natural amines inhibit activation of human plasmacytoid dendritic cells through CXCR4 engagement.

ABSTRACT: Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) are specialized in secretion of type I interferon in response to pathogens. Here we show that natural monoamines and synthetic amines inhibit pDC activation by RNA viruses. Furthermore, a synthetic analogue of histamine reduces type I interferon production in a mouse model of influenza infection. We identify CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) as a receptor used by amines to inhibit pDC. Our study establishes a functional link between natural amines and the innate immune system and identifies CXCR4 as a potential 'on-off' switch of pDC activity with therapeutic potential.

SUBMITTER: Smith N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5309800 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature