Control of the antigen-specific cytotoxic T cell memory response

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Individuals who survive infections by a given pathogenic micro-organism are usually protected from subsequent infections by these same agents. This is the basis of adaptive immunity, which defines the body's ability to maintain a memory of prior infection or vaccination and in so doing, mount a far more effective response to subsequent infection by these agents. This proposal deals with the mechanisms by which this memory is maintained. It specifically focuses on cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) which are leucocytes or white blood cells that kill virus infected cells. Using new technology which permits visualisation of CTL directed against specific viruses we are going to define what determines the survival and replacement of these memory cells over time. We will also identify the agents that alter the memory CTL's ability to deal with infections within localised sites in the body. In so doing, this work will provide valuable insight into approaches that can be used to better vaccinate individuals against infections by pathogenic viruses.