A study of bioenergetics and mitochondrial function in Cytotoxic T cell subsets

Abstract

CD8 T cell fate and function have been linked to specific metabolic programs. T effector (T eff) and T memory (T mem) cells engage mitochondrial metabolism to different extents, as recognised by stark differences in mitochondrial morphology, dynamics and oxidative phosphorylation (Oxphos). CD8 T eff cells are thought to engage aerobic glycolysis to fuel anabolism, while T mem cells engage Oxphos and fatty acid oxidation to satisfy their longevity and self-renewal. However, it is not known the extent to which individual mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) complexes control CD8 T cell bioenergetics and function. Therefore, this study aimed to carry out an in-depth bioenergetic analysis of both CD8 T cell subsets, to further understand the fundamental differences between mitochondrial and ETC functions between both subsets.