Understanding CD8+ T cell immunity to Trypanosoma cruzi and how to improve it

Abstract

The protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi is the causative agent of Chagas' disease, endemic in Latin America but present worldwide. Research efforts have focused on the examination of immune mechanisms that mediate host protection as well as immunopathology during this parasitic infection. The study of CD8+ T cell immunity emerges as a key aspect given the critical importance of parasite-specific CD8+ T cells for host resistance throughout the infection. In recent years, new research has shed light on novel pathways that modulate the induction, maintenance, and regulation of CD8+ T cell responses to T. cruzi. This new knowledge is setting the ground for future vaccines and/or immunotherapies. Herein, we critically review and analyze the latest results published in the field.