Signaling control of memory T cell generation and function.
Memory T cells exhibit low activation thresholds and mediate rapid effector responses when recalled by antigen; contrasting the higher activation threshold, slower responses and predominant IL-2 production by naive T cells. While the sequence of intracellular events coupling the T cell-receptor (TCR) to naive T cell activation is well characterized, biochemical control of memory T cell differentiation and function remains undefined. In this review, we will discuss recent developments in T cell-receptor signal transduction as they pertain to memory T cells, and will discuss how signal dampening may drive memory generation, and more efficient spatial organization of signaling molecules may promote rapid recall responses.
Chandok
Meena R
MR
Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, MSTF Building, Room 400, 685 W. Baltimore St., Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
Farber
Donna L
DL
D000818:Animals; D007156:Immunologic Memory; D010766:Phosphorylation; D011948:Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell / Q000378:metabolism*; D015398:Signal Transduction; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology*
D011948:Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell