Vα14i NK T cells are activated but do not expand in response to MCMV infection in vivo.

<p><i>A</i>, Splenic and hepatic leukocytes were isolated from MCMV infected or vehicle treated mice at 20 and 40 hrs post-infection and the Vα14i NK T cell compartment was analyzed by staining with TCR-β and α-GalCer-loaded CD1d tetramer. <i>B</i>, Hepatic Vα14i NK T cells were analyzed for the surface expression level of CD25 at 20 and 40 hrs p.i. compared to vehicle treated mice. <i>C,</i> The average expression level of CD25 on the surface of Vα14i NK T cells, average MFI±SD is shown. <i>D,</i> Hepatic leukocytes were isolated from MCMV infected or vehicle treated mice at the indicated days post-infection. The Vα14i NK T cell compartment was analyzed by staining with TCR-β and α-GalCer-loaded CD1d tetramer and the NK cell compartment was analyzed by gating on the NK1.1⁺TCRβ⁻ cells. The percentage and absolute number of Vα14i NK T and NK cells is shown. Results are representative of 3 to 5 independent experiments.