CD8 T-cell subsets: heterogeneity, functions, and therapeutic potential

Abstract

CD8 T cells play crucial roles in immune surveillance and defense against infections and cancer. After encountering antigenic stimulation, naïve CD8 T cells differentiate and acquire effector functions, enabling them to eliminate infected or malignant cells. Traditionally, cytotoxic T cells, characterized by their ability to produce effector cytokines and release cytotoxic granules to directly kill target cells, have been recognized as the constituents of the predominant effector T-cell subset. However, emerging evidence suggests distinct subsets of effector CD8 T cells that each exhibit unique effector functions and therapeutic potential. This review highlights recent advancements in our understanding of CD8 T-cell subsets and the contributions of these cells to various disease pathologies. Understanding the diverse roles and functions of effector CD8 T-cell subsets is crucial to discern the complex dynamics of immune responses in different disease settings. Furthermore, the development of immunotherapeutic approaches that specifically target and regulate the function of distinct CD8 T-cell subsets holds great promise for precision medicine.

Genetically predicted Vascular endothelial growth factor A mediates the association between CD3+ CD8+ TD T cell and Colorectal cancer: A Mendelian randomization analysis

“…After encountering antigenic stimulation, naïve CD8 T cells differentiate and acquire effector functions, enabling them to eliminate infected or malignant cells (H et al, 2023).Traditionally, cytotoxic T cells, characterized by their ability to produce effector cytokines and release cytotoxic granules to directly kill target cells, have been recognized as the constituents of the predominant effector T-cell subset. However, emerging evidence suggests distinct subsets of effector CD8 T cells that each exhibit unique effector functions and therapeutic potential (CH et al, 2023).When tumours progress and su cient tumour antigen is presented in draining lymph nodes, tumour-speci c T cells can be activated in the draining lymph node or within tumour tissue in a largely non-in ammatory, non-stimulatory context, inducing an anergic, early dysfunctional T cell state (phase 1). The tumour continues to progress, inducing an immunosuppressive microenvironment.…”

Immune cell signatures and inflammatory mediators: unraveling their genetic impact on chronic kidney disease through Mendelian randomization

“…Among these, CD8dim T cells emerge as a unique subset, distinguished by a subdued expression of the CD8 marker relative to their CD8bright counterparts. This subset exhibits a distinctive cytokine profile and transcription factor expression, resonant with CD4 + T cell subsets, playing a pivotal role in modulating immune dynamics, including inflammatory responses and the orchestration of intercellular communication [ 29 ]. Our investigation delineates a causal nexus between the elevation of both absolute and relative counts of CD28 + CD45RA + CD8 + T cells and the incidence of CKD.…”

Wnt5 controls splenic myelopoiesis and neutrophil functional ambivalency during DSS-induced colitis

“…These regulatory CD8 + T cells contribute to immune modulation and suppress or eliminate activated CD4 T cells. 29 – 31 The neutrophil also plays an important role in human and mouse models of IBD. 10 , 32 , 33 However, how neutrophils impact IBD is not well understood.…”