Mitochondrial & Bioenergetic Impairment in Exhausted CD8 T Cells in HIV Viremia

Prof. Wong explores how T cell metabolism drives immune function, focusing on CD8⁺ T cells during HIV infection. She explains how energy generation via mitochondria and glycolysis supports T cell activation, and how chronic infection can lead to T cell exhaustion with impaired mitochondrial and glycolytic function. The presentation highlights differences between treatment responders and non-responders, emphasizing the challenge of restoring exhausted T cells. Potential strategies to reinvigorate these cells for better antiviral immunity are also discussed.