T memory stem cells in health and disease

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Stem Cell Biology
• Cellular Immunology

Background:

• T memory stem (T_SCM) cells are a rare lymphocyte subset.
• They exhibit stem cell-like self-renewal and multipotent differentiation capabilities.
• T_SCM cells represent minimally differentiated cells at the apex of memory T cell hierarchy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe emerging findings on the role of T_SCM cells in human physiological and pathological processes.
• To discuss the therapeutic potential of T_SCM cell stemness.
• To explore therapeutic strategies for T_SCM cell-driven diseases.

Main Methods:

• Review of cumulative evidence from studies in mice, nonhuman primates, and humans.
• Analysis of emerging findings on T_SCM cell characteristics and functions.
• Discussion of therapeutic applications and implications.

Main Results:

• T_SCM cells possess extreme longevity and robust immune reconstitution potential.
• These cells are central players in various human physiological and pathological processes.
• T_SCM cell stemness offers opportunities for therapeutic interventions.

Conclusions:

• T_SCM cells are critical for immune homeostasis and disease pathogenesis.
• Leveraging T_SCM cell stemness can enhance vaccine and adoptive T cell therapy efficacy.
• Disrupting T_SCM cell activity may treat diseases like autoimmunity, adult T cell leukemia, and HIV-1.