Reflections on CD8 T-cell activation and memory

CD8 T cells contribute to clearance and long-term protection following acute infection with certain viruses, bacteria, and protozoa, and may play an important role in tumor immunity. Primary adaptive CD8 T-cell responses have been conceptually divided into four phases: activation, expansion, contraction, and memory. We summarize each phase of the response, and discuss recent advances in our understanding of the development and maintenance of CD8 T-cell memory.