Studies in mice have revealed important features about some chronic infections. In the case of mice infected with a persistent strain of lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), these studies showed that a majority of the virus-specific T cells were eliminated from the mice over time; however, some virus-specific CD8 T cells persisted but were unable to eradicate the viral infection. These remaining cells expressed high levels of several inhibitory receptors, including PD-1. One possible treatment for these mice to promote their ability to clear this chronic infection would be:
A) Immunization with an inactivated preparation of LCMV
B) Administration of anti-PD-1 antibody
C) Administration of an antiviral drug that would block LCMV replication
D) Immunization with a purified surface antigen from LCMV
E) Stimulation with a TLR7 or TLR9 ligand to induce an interferon response

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Administration of anti-PD-1 antibody would block the inhibitory receptor PD-1, which is expressed at high levels on virus-specific CD8 T cells in these mice. This blockade would prevent the inhibition of the T cells and promote their ability to clear the chronic LCMV infection. The other options would not directly address the inhibitory receptor expression on the remaining virus-specific CD8 T cells.

Studies in Mice Have Revealed Important Features About Some Chronic