Memory T lymphocytes.
Immunological memory protects organisms from recurrent challenge by pathogens. The persistence of a heightened reactive state initiated by antigenic challenge is mediated by long-lived memory lymphocytes. The survival of memory T cells is thought to require stimulation through the T cell receptor (TCR), sometimes by persistent antigen. However, memory T cells can survive in the absence of antigen, in which case TCR stimulation provided by cell surface self-peptide/ major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules and cytokines are required to sustain memory T cells. Recent work using mouse models has provided insights into the origin of memory T cells. Understanding the mechanisms that underlie the differentiation and persistence of memory T cells may improve the effectiveness of vaccines through the induction of T cell memory.
Ashton-Rickardta
P G
PG
Committee on Immunology, Gwen Knapp Center for Lupus and Immunology Research, The University of Chicago, Illinois 60637-5420, USA. pashtonr@midway.uchicago.edu
Opferman
J T
JT
D000818:Animals; D002470:Cell Survival; D007156:Immunologic Memory; D051379:Mice; D008954:Models, Biological; D010641:Phenotype; D011948:Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell / Q000502:physiology; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology* / Q000502:physiology; D013997:Time Factors; D014612:Vaccines / Q000276:immunology
D011948:Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell; D014612:Vaccines