Naive T cells are kept in a quiescence state, characterized by small cell size, with low proliferative and metabolic activities, until antigen engagement. T lymphocyte quiescence is a tightly controlled mechanism regulated by multiple quiescence‐associated factors. Loss or impaired functions of these factors regularly result in spontaneous activation of T cells that is ensured by fatal autoimmune diseases. Elucidating the mechanism to facilitate the switch on or off of T cells could be beneficial to ameliorate pathology triggered by T cell hyperactivation or dysfunction. In this chapter, we discuss multiple quiescence‐associated factors along with the mechanisms utilized to promote lymphocyte quiescence and longevity.
Part of the book: Lymphocyte Updates