Naïve CD8+ T-Cells Engage a Versatile Metabolic Program Upon Activation in Humans and Differ Energetically From Memory CD8+ T-Cells

Abstract

<b>Background:</b> Characterization of the intracellular biochemical processes that regulate the generation and maintenance of effector and memory CD8⁺ T-cells from naïve precursors is essential for our understanding of adaptive immune responses and the development of immunotherapies. However, the metabolic determinants of antigen-driven activation and differentiation remain poorly defined, especially in humans. <b>Methods:</b> We used a variety of different approaches, including gene expression profiling and measurements of nutrient flux, to characterize the basal and activation-induced energetic requirements of naïve and phenotypically-defined subsets of human memory CD8⁺ T-cells. <b>Findings:</b> Profound metabolic differences were apparent as a function of differentiation status, both at rest and in response to stimulation via the T cell receptor (TCR). Of particular note, resting naïve CD8⁺ T cells were largely quiescent, but rapidly upregulated diverse energetic pathways after ligation of surface-expressed TCRs. Moreover, autophagy and the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR)-dependent glycolytic pathway were identified as critical mediators of antigen-driven priming in the naïve CD8⁺ T cell pool, the efficiency of which was dampened by the presence of neutral lipids and fatty acids. <b>Interpretation:</b> These observations provide a metabolic roadmap of the CD8⁺ T-cell compartment in humans and reveal potentially selective targets for novel immunotherapies.