CD8+ T cells can trigger skin pathology post Zika virus infection in the absence of CD4+ T cell regulation

Using a T cell deficient mouse model that retains a persistent ZIKV viral titre in the circulatory system and organs, we show that adoptive transfer of CD8+ T-cells led to a significant reduction in viral load in the blood and tissues. In addition, this animal model reveals the potential for a ZIKV induced auricular dermatitis and blepharitis, mediated by ZIKV-specific CD8+ T cells. Single cell RNA sequencing of these causative CD8+ T cells from the ears show an overactivated and elevated cytotoxic signature in mice with severe symptoms. Brain macrophage CD45+F4/80+CD11b+Ly6C- heterogeneity was determined by single cell RNA-Seq analysis