Distinct tissue niches contribute to prostate tissue-resident memory CD8+ T cell differentiation and heterogeneity

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The prostate is an important exocrine organ, a barrier tissue of the male reproductive system, and a common site of malignancy, yet CD8 + T cells in the prostate remain largely uncharacterized. Here, we show that a protective, heterogeneous pool of long-lived, tissue-resident memory CD8 + T (Trm) cells forms in the prostate following acute infection in mice. Characterization of prostate Trm cell differentiation over time, combined with functional interrogation of TGFβ, IL-7, and IL-15 signaling, revealed niche-dependent phenotypic and functional diversity arising from distinct prostate stromal and glandular epithelial niches in both mice and humans. For instance, the Trm-promoting cytokines IL-15 and TGFβ were highest in the prostate epithelium, where CD8 + T cells were most persistent, cytotoxic, and enriched for the Trm molecular program. In sum, we provide a spatial framework for prostate Trm cell differentiation, charting the discrete tissue regions that influence T cell fate through dynamic regulation of localized signals.

Source: Immunity

DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2026.03.003

Institutions: University of California San Diego, Allen Institute for Immunology, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, Moores Cancer Center, The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology

Language: English

Topic: T-cell and B-cell Immunology

Subfield: Immunology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $10,400

Funders: Cancer Research Institute, Association for Women Geoscientists, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

OpenAlex ID: W7147327320