Delve into the biology of CD8+ T cell subsets

CD8+ T cells are a vital part of adaptive immunity, helping to monitor and survey the body and destroying infected cells with Granzymes, Perforins, and other cytokines. Encountering antigen allows CD8+ T cells to generate both effector cells and memory cells. Effector cells provide immediate responses, while memory cells offer heightened immunity upon re-engagement with that antigen or pathogen in the future. This occurs naturally during acute infection when the body can properly clear pathogens and threats. However, there are times where the body may repeatedly encounter an antigen and form a chronic immune response, such as when tumor tissue is present. This constant stimulation can lead to T cells becoming exhausted, limiting their effectiveness in clearing the threat.

Download our poster, which contains helpful information such as:

• An extensive list of human CD8 T cell subsets, including phenotypic markers found at low, high, variable, and negative expression levels.
• Contributing factors that can lead to immune responses for acute and chronic infection.
• Immune checkpoint blockade and its ability to reverse T cell exhaustion.