HMN 2025: What is the function of reminiscence T cells in viral infections and their significance for long-term immunity

Olga Rivera Ballesteros from the Center for Infectious Medicine (CIM) on the Department of Medicine, Huddinge (MedH) is defending her thesis titled “Circulating and Resident Memory T cell capabilities in viral illnesses” on 21 March, 2025. The major supervisor is Marcus Buggert (MedH).

What is the primary focus of your thesis?

When a virus enters the physique, the immune system responds in two phases: a right away innate protection adopted by an adaptive response that builds long-term safety. Memory T cells play a key function on this immunity, with circulating sorts patrolling the blood and tissue-resident sorts guarding particular organs in opposition to future infections. This thesis explores how these reminiscence T cells work in several viral infections, with a give attention to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and SARS-CoV-2 virus.

First, we found {that a} particular kind of T cell (CXCR5⁺ CD8⁺) resides within the tonsils, where EBV persists within the physique, suggesting a job in controlling latent an infection. Second, our findings point out that in folks residing with HIV, the T cell compartment doesn’t totally get better after remedy, neither within the blood nor within the intestine—where we additionally present HIV is extra generally hidden.

Finally, we present that purposeful T cell responses develop following SARS-CoV-2 an infection, and that COVID-19 vaccination enhances each the frequency and performance of those cells, contributing to long-lasting immunity.

By exploring how totally different immune cells combat viral infections, this analysis goals to enhance our understanding of immunity and contribute to the event of future vaccines and coverings in opposition to viral infections.

What are your future ambitions?

I wish to apply the scientific, analytical, and mushy expertise I’ve developed throughout my Ph.D. to a special subject of labor. Among the varied viral infections I’ve studied through the years, I’m significantly fascinated by HIV an infection. I’m desirous to proceed my profession in a job where I can contribute to bettering international entry to HIV therapies and make a significant influence on public well being.