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The descent of memory T-cell subsets

Nature Reviews Immunology volume 6, pages 618–623 (2006)Cite this article

Abstract

The immune system has evolved by continuously increasing its complexity to provide the host with an advantage over infectious agents. The development of immunological memory engenders long-lasting protection and lengthens the lifespan of the host. The generation of subsets of memory T cells with distinct homing and functional properties increases our defensive capabilities. However, the developmental relationship of memory T-cell subsets is a matter of debate. In this Opinion article, in light of recent developments, we suggest that it is probable that two distinct lineages comprise the memory CD8+ T-cell population generated in response to infection.

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Figure 1: Potential pathways of the development of memory CD8+ T-cell subsets based on CD62L expression.
Figure 2: Production of secondary memory CD8+ T cells after reactivation of TCM and TEM cells.

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Acknowledgements

We would like to thank L. Puddington for critical review of the manuscript and all the members of the laboratory for intellectual and scientific contributions that led to the theories put forth in this paper. This work was supported by grants from the US National Institutes of Health.

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  1. the Department of Immunology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, 06030, Connecticut, USA

    Leo Lefrançois & Amanda L. Marzo

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Correspondence to Leo Lefrançois.

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Lefrançois, L., Marzo, A. The descent of memory T-cell subsets. Nat Rev Immunol 6, 618–623 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1038/nri1866

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