Using single-cell RNA-seq to lineage trace effector to memory transitions in CD4 T cells during malaria

Abstract

Abstract Hallmark features of adaptive CD4+ T-cells include differentiation into multiple effector T helper (Th) fates and subsequent emergence of memory states. Due to the heterogeneous nature of CD4+ T-cells, determining possible developmental relationships between effector and memory states in vivo has remained a challenge. Previously we employed single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) to delineate the molecular trajectories of Plasmodium-specific TCR transgenic CD4+ T cells during the first week of experimental malaria. We observed a fate bifurcation as cells progressed from an intermediate, activated state to either effector Th1 or T follicular helper (Tfh) cells. My curre..