A modified model of T-cell differentiation based on mTOR activity and metabolism

Abstract

Current models of T-helper-cell differentiation depict the generation of effector cells from a naïve T cell based on the cytokine environment upon T-cell-receptor engagement. We propose a new model of CD4+ T-cell activation, differentiation, and function whereby the outcome of antigen recognition is dictated by mTOR activity and the subsequent up-regulation of selective metabolic function. Such a model more readily explains the generation of effector and memory cells including the concept of effector and memory Foxp3+ regulatory cells. © 2013 Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press.