CD161(int)CD8+ T cells: a novel population of highly functional, memory CD8+ T cells enriched within the gut.

ABSTRACT: The C-type lectin-like receptor CD161 is expressed by lymphocytes found in human gut and liver, as well as blood, especially natural killer (NK) cells, T helper 17 (Th17) cells, and a population of unconventional T cells known as mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells. The association of high CD161 expression with innate T-cell populations including MAIT cells is established. Here we show that CD161 is also expressed, at intermediate levels, on a prominent subset of polyclonal CD8+ T cells, including antiviral populations that display a memory phenotype. These memory CD161(int)CD8+ T cells are enriched within the colon and express both CD103 and CD69, markers associated with tissue residence. Furthermore, this population was characterized by enhanced polyfunctionality, increased level

SUBMITTER: Fergusson JR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4732939 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature