Molecular and cellular insights into T cell exhaustion
E John Wherry, Makoto Kurachi, E John Wherry, Makoto Kurachi
Abstract
In chronic infections and cancer, T cells are exposed to persistent antigen and/or inflammatory signals. This scenario is often associated with the deterioration of T cell function: a state called 'exhaustion'. Exhausted T cells lose robust effector functions, express multiple inhibitory receptors and are defined by an altered transcriptional programme. T cell exhaustion is often associated with inefficient control of persisting infections and tumours, but revitalization of exhausted T cells can reinvigorate immunity. Here, we review recent advances that provide a clearer molecular understanding of T cell exhaustion and reveal new therapeutic targets for persisting infections and cancer.
Figures
![Figure 1. Progressive development of T cell…](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/instance/4889009/bin/nihms-787381-f0001.jpg)
![Figure 2. Overview of mechanisms of T…](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/instance/4889009/bin/nihms-787381-f0002.jpg)
![Figure 3. Molecular pathways of inhibitory receptors…](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/instance/4889009/bin/nihms-787381-f0003.jpg)
![Figure 4. Transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms of…](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/instance/4889009/bin/nihms-787381-f0004.jpg)
Source: PubMed