T cell activity
requires the presentation of viral peptides on the surface
of infected cells in the context of MHC molecules
and, unlike B cells, T cells do not recognize intact virions.
Therefore, it would not be possible for dengue virusspecific
T cells to provide sterilizing immunity against
viral infection. Nevertheless, the lysis of virus-infected
cells and/or the antiviral effects of T cell cytokines (such
as IFNγ) could theoretically restrict viral replication and
inhibit the development of disease. However, there have
been fewer studies of T cell-mediated protection than of
antibody-mediated protection.