Role of T Follicular Helper Cells in Viral Infections and Vaccine Design
Sohrab Ahmadivand, Robert Fux, Dušan Palić
Abstract
T follicular helper (Tfh) cells are a specialized subset of CD4+ T lymphocytes that are essential for the development of long-lasting humoral immunity. Tfh cells facilitate B lymphocyte maturation, promote germinal center formation, and drive high-affinity antibody production. Our current knowledge of Tfh interactions with the humoral immune system effectors suggests that they have a critical role in supporting the immune response against viral infections. This review discusses the mechanisms through which Tfh cells influence anti-viral immunity, highlighting their interactions with B cells and their impact on antibody quality and quantity. We explore the role of Tfh cells in viral infections and examine how vaccine design can be improved to enhance Tfh cell responses. Innovative vaccine platforms, such as mRNA vaccines and self-assembling protein nanoplatforms (SAPNs), are promising strategies to enhance Tfh cell activation. Their integration and synergistic combination could further enhance immunity and Tfh responses (SAPN-RNA vaccines). In summary, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current insights into Tfh cells' role during viral infections, emphasizing their potential as strategic targets for innovative vaccine development.