Research: The Hamilton-Hart lab is interested in studying long lived effector (LLECs) CD8+ T cells, a memory T cell distinct from T effector memory (TEM) and T central memory (TCM). We have shown that LLECs display enhanced effector capacity compared to other memory CD8 T cell populations. My thesis research focuses on activating and inhibitory NK receptor function on memory CD8+ T cells, as we have observed that these receptors are enriched on LLECs. Particularly, I am interested in NKG2D, an activating receptor that recognizes a family of stress ligands that is upregulated on infected, cancerous, or otherwise transformed cells. My hypothesis is that NKG2D expression on LLECs cells allows them to function in more innate-like manners. Futhermore, I also believe that NKG2D may act in coordination with TCR signaling as a costimulatory receptor. I hypothesize that NKG2D supports LLEC function in a recall response to enhance their effector function.
Publications:
Maurice, N.J., Dalzell, T.S., Tankersley, T.N. et al. IL-4–STAT6 signaling delays protective CD8+ T cell bystander activation by antagonizing IL-18 sensing. Nat Immunol 27, 476–489 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41590-026-02430-9
Hildebrand JA, Daniels NR, Dehm EM, Fisher BD, Guter JK, Janse CJ,… Trevor N Tankersley et al. (2025) Severe malaria enforces short-lived effector cell differentiation but does not prevent effective secondary responses by memory CD8 T cells. PLoS Pathogens 21(3): e1012993. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.ppat.1012993
