Memory stem CD8⁺T cells in HIV/Mtb mono- and co-infection: characteristics, implications, and clinical significance

Human immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) co-infection presents a significant public health challenge worldwide. Comprehensive assessment of the immune response in HIV/Mtb co-infection is complex and challenging. CD8⁺T cells play a pivotal role in the adaptive immune response to both HIV and Mtb. The differentiation of CD8⁺T cells follow a hierarchical pattern, with varying degrees of exhaustion throughout the process. Memory stem T cells (T_SCM cells) is at the apex of the memory T lymphocyte system, which has recently emerged as a promising target in immunotherapy. In this context, we discuss the alterations of CD8⁺T_SCM cells in HIV/Mtb mono- and co-infection, their implications and clinical significance, and potential for improving immunotherapy.