Description

T-Cell exhaustion refers to clinical states where T-cells are unable to function normally.


Typical occurrence: chronic infection, cancer

 

Features:

(1) functional (qualitative) defect of T-cells (CD8+, CD4+)

(2) low proliferative response to antigen stimulation

(3) progressive loss of cytokine production and killing function

(4) expression of multiple inhibitory receptors (PD-1, CTLA-4, Tim-3, LAG3, CD39, other)

(5) metabolic defects (reduced oxidative phosphorylation, altered glycolysis)

 

Exhausted T-cells can be rejuvenated if the underlying cause is addressed, such as blocking of inhibitory receptors.

 

Differential diagnosis:

(1) lymphopenia (quantitative deficiency in lymphocytes)

(2) other causes of immunodeficiency


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