Herpesvirus activated NF-κB-mediated antigen processing and presentation to aggravate trichloroethylene-induced hypersensitivity dermatitis.

Trichloroethylene-induced hypersensitivity dermatitis (TIHD) is a delayed hypersensitivity response that is affected by genetic and environmental factors. Occupational exposure to trichloroethylene (TCE) enhances antigen presentation, leading to hypersensitivity in workers with the HLA-B* 13:01 allele. Several studies have observed the activation of herpesviruses, such as EpsteinBarr virus (EBV), in TIHD patients. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of herpesvirus infection. This study aimed to explore whether TLRs serve as a shared mechanism for both herpesvirus and allergenic chemicals. In this study, HLA-B* 13:01-transfected Hmy2. A C1R cell model was constructed, and cells were treated with TCOH and EBV to explore the possible mechanisms. We established a mouse model of dermatitis and used a TLR4 agonist to verify the effect of herpesvirus on TIHD. The results showed that EBV and TCOH synergistically enhance antigen processing and presentation via the TLR2/NF-κB axis. Furthermore, TLR4 agonist further aggravated skin lesions and liver damage in TCE-sensitized mice through TLR4/NF-κB axis-mediated antigen processing and presentation. Together, this study indicates that viral infection further aggravates the inflammatory response in TIHD based on environment-gene interactions.