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.
