Pro-inflammatory CD8+ T cells (Pro-inflammatory CTLs)

Pro-inflammatory CD8+ T cells are a subset of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) that, beyond their classical role in directly killing infected or malignant cells, also secrete pro-inflammatory cytokines and contribute to inflammatory processes in various diseases. These cells express the CD8 co-receptor and recognize antigens presented by MHC class I molecules on target cells. They directly kill virus-infected, cancerous, or otherwise abnormal host cells via release of perforin and granzymes and secrete pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), which amplify local immune responses and inflammation. They can promote tissue damage in chronic inflammatory conditions by inducing apoptosis of non-infected host cells. Targeting the activity or abundance of pro-inflammatory CD8+ T-cells is being explored therapeutically for conditions where they drive pathology—such as cardiovascular disease or autoimmune disorders.

Other names

Proinflammatory CD8+ T cellsPro-inflammatory cytotoxic T lymphocytesActivated CD8+ T cellsEffector CD8+ T cells

Modulation of cytokine production; Inhibition of T cell activation; Induction of apoptosis