Exploring the functions of NKG7 in CD4 and CD8 T cells during malaria

Abstract

Malaria, caused by Plasmodium parasites, is a significant global health issue. CD4+ and CD8+ T cells are important for immunity against Plasmodium infections, but the specific roles of many immune-related effector molecules in T cells remain poorly defined. Here, we investigated the function of NK cell granule protein 7 (NKG7) in T cells during malaria, focusing on its role in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in Plasmodium blood-stage responses. In a non-lethal malaria model, NKG7 regulated the development of pro-inflammatory T helper 1 (Th1), IL-10-producing type 1 regulatory (Tr1), and T follicular helper cell responses. In a model of cerebral malaria, NKG7 had a cell-intrinsic role in regulating per..