Gamma Delta T Cells Mediate a Requisite Portion of a Wound Healing Response Triggered by Cutaneous Poxvirus Infection

The study explores the role of γδ T cells in wound healing following cutaneous vaccinia virus (VACV) infection. It reveals that γδ T cells, both resident and recruited, are crucial for mitigating tissue pathology and promoting wound healing by inducing cytokines and growth factors like IL-17A, IL-22, and fibroblast growth factors. These cells do not affect local virus replication or systemic spread but are essential for maintaining skin barrier function and preventing secondary infections. The absence of γδ T cells in TCRδ−/− mice leads to increased tissue damage and altered expression of wound healing genes, underscoring their critical role in modulating the immune response and tissue repair during viral infections. The study's findings suggest potential therapeutic implications for enhancing wound healing by targeting γδ T cells.