Memory vs memory‐like: The different facets of CD8+ T‐cell memory in HCV infection

Summary Memory CD 8 + T cells are essential in orchestrating protection from re‐infection. Hallmarks of virus‐specific memory CD 8 + T cells are the capacity to mount recall responses with rapid induction of effector cell function and antigen‐independent survival. Growing evidence reveals that even chronic infection does not preclude virus‐specific CD 8 + T‐cell memory formation. However, whether this kind of CD 8 + T‐cell memory that is established during chronic infection is indeed functional and provides protection from re‐infection is still unclear. Human chronic hepatitis C virus infection represents a unique model system to study virus‐specific CD 8 + T‐cell memory formation during and after cessation of persisting antigen stimulation.