CD1 molecules and CD1-dependent T cells in bacterial infections: a link from innate to acquired immunity?

The MHC class I-like, non-polymorphic CD1 molecules represent a novel syste m for the presentation of glycolipid antigens to T lymphocytes. CD1-mediate d T cell responses appear to play distinct roles during bacterial infection s such as in tuberculosis. This review deals with two aspects of CD1-mediat ed immune reactions. First we discuss the rob of group II CD1-dependent NK T cells in bacterial infection. Second, we provide an insight into differen tial intracellular meeting points for antigen processing between group 1 CD 1 molecules, mycobacteria and mycobacterial glycolipid antigens.