查看文章

Based on T cell subset depletion studies and the analysis of gene knockout mice, it is evident that CD8⁺ T cells contribute to resistance against intracellular infections with certain viral, protozoan, and bacterial pathogens. Although they are known primarily for their capacity to kill infected cells, CD8⁺ T cells elaborate a variety of effector mechanisms with the potential to defend against infection. Microbes use multiple strategies to cause infection, and the nature of the pathogenhost interaction may determine which CD8⁺ T cell effector mechanisms are required for immunity. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the effector functions used by CD8⁺ T cells in resistance to pathogens. Analyses of mice deficient in perforin and/or Fas demonstrate that cytolysis is critical for immunity against some, but not all, infections and also reveal the contribution of cytolysis to the pathogenesis of disease. The role of …