The metabolic spectrum of memory T cells

Immunol Cell Biol. 2019 Aug;97(7):636-646. doi: 10.1111/imcb.12274. Epub 2019 Jun 12.

Abstract

The development and persistence of memory T cells are integral to effective host defenses. Cell metabolism has a central role in the maintenance of these populations and engagement of specific metabolic pathways can influence T-cell fate. Nuances in memory T-cell metabolism are both context dependent, and exist, on a spectrum that complements and supports the activity of specific memory T-cell subsets. This review explores how metabolic pathways and substrate choice can influence the phenotype and function of memory T cells.

Keywords: immunometabolism; memory T-cell metabolism; mitochondria.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Communication / genetics
  • Cell Communication / immunology
  • Cell Differentiation / genetics
  • Cell Differentiation / immunology
  • Energy Metabolism*
  • Epigenesis, Genetic
  • Gene Expression Regulation
  • Humans
  • Immunologic Memory*
  • Lymphocyte Activation / genetics
  • Lymphocyte Activation / immunology
  • Mitochondria / genetics
  • Mitochondria / metabolism
  • Signal Transduction
  • T-Lymphocyte Subsets / immunology*
  • T-Lymphocyte Subsets / metabolism*