Early T-BET expression ensures an appropriate CD8+ lineage-specific transcriptional landscape after Influenza A virus infection

Whilst the importance of T-BET in directing optimal virus-specific T cell responses is accepted, the precise timing and molecular mechanism of action remains unclear. Utilising a mouse model of influenza A virus infection, we demonstrate that while T-BET is not required for early CD8+ T cell activation and cellular division, it is essential for early acquisition of virus-specific CD8+ T cell function and sustained differentiation and expansion.