Memory CD8+ T Cell Protection

Memory CD8+ T cells play an essential role in controlling pathogenic infections. Therefore generating protective memory CD8+ T cells by vaccination is an attractive strategy for preventing and treating a variety of human diseases. Understanding what comprises a protective memory CD8+ T cell response will help optimize vaccine-induced CD8+ T cell immunity. Here we discuss essential antiviral effector functions and highlight how recall expansion of memory CD8+ T cells may affect the primary response.