Distinct peripheral vs mucosal T‐cell phenotypes in chlamydia‐infected women

Abstract

Problem Differences in circulating (peripheral) and mucosal T cell phenotypes in chlamydia-infected women remain largely unknown. Method of study Thirteen paired mononuclear cell specimens from blood and cervicovaginal lavages collected from chlamydia-infected women were stained and analyzed using ten-color cell surface flow cytometry for T cell distribution, activation status, homing, and T helper (Th)-associated chemokine receptors (CKRs). Results A higher proportion of genital mucosal T cells were activated (CD38+HLA-DR+) and expressed CCR5 and Th1-associated CKR CXCR3+CCR5+ compared to peripheral T cells, but a lower proportion of mucosal T cells expressed homing CKR CCR7, Th-2 associated CKR CCR4, and CXCR3+CCR4+ for both T cell subsets. Conclusion T cell phenotypes differed in the peripheral vs. genital mucosa compartments in chlamydia-infected women. Since chlamydia infects mucosal epithelial cells, the finding of a higher frequency of activated T cells and Th-1 phenotypes in the mucosa likely reflects an adaptive immune response to infection.