Analysis of BZLF1 mRNA detection in saliva as a marker for active replication of Epstein-Barr virus.

Monitoring replicative Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection still remains a challenge in modern laboratory routine. The immediate-early protein BZLF1 mediates the switch between latent and replicate forms of EBV infection. The aim of this study was to analyze the feasibility of BZLF1 mRNA detection in saliva as a marker for active replication of the virus.

Increased frequency of CCR4+ and CCR6+ memory T-cells including CCR7+CD45RAmed very early memory cells in granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener's).

Introduction: Chemokine receptors play an important role in mediating the recruitment of T cells to inflammatory sites. Previously, small proportions of circulating Th1-type CCR5+ and Th2-type CCR3+ cells have been shown in granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA). Wondering to what extent CCR4 and CCR6 expression could also be implicated in T cell recruitment to inflamed sites in GPA, we investigated the expression of CCR4 and CCR6 on T cells and its association with T cell diversity and polarization.

Longitudinal analysis of frequency and reactivity of Epstein-Barr virus-specific T lymphocytes and their association with intermittent viral reactivation.

Persistent Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is controlled tightly by virus-specific T cells. EBV infection is reactivated intermittently over time, even in apparently healthy carriers. Changes in frequency and reactivity of memory T cells, particularly of CD8(+) origin, have not been assessed in this context.

Distinct proteinase 3-induced cytokine patterns in Wegener´s granulomatosis, Churg-Strauss syndrome, and healthy controls.

Objectives: To analyse whether a specific cytokine pattern is elicited in response to the autoantigen proteinase 3 (PR3) in active Wegener's granulomatosis (WG).

Methods: Six-colour flow cytometry was used to analyse cytokine production and surface markers of the total CD4+ T-cell population ex vivo and in PR3-stimulated T-cell lines of patients with active PR3-ANCA-positive WG, PR3-ANCA-negative Churg-Strauss syndrome (CSS), and healthy controls (HC).

Results: The cytokine response of the total PB CD4+ T cell population was skewed towards distinct pro-inflammatory cytokine patterns in WG (Th1-type) and CSS (Th17, Th1-/Th2-type).