Effector and memory CD8+ T cell differentiation: toward a molecular understanding of fate determination

CD8+ T cells play a key role in protecting the body against invading microorganisms. Their capacity to control infection relies on the development of peripheral effector and memory T cells. Much of our current knowledge has been gained by tracking alterations of the phenotype of CD8+ T cells but the molecular understanding of the events that underpin the emergence of heterogeneous effector and memory CD8+ T cells in response to infection has remained limited. This review focuses on the recent progress in our understanding of the molecular wiring of this differentiation process.