Cell state · L2
T.CD8_transitional.effector_primed
6,528 cells in the full atlas (not the displayed sample).
These are the cell-population annotations shown in the SCREATE Cell Browser.
Read trait, study and gene evidence reports for this population →
Explore this population in Cell Browser →
Marker genes
CD160, CMC1, FCGR3A, FCRL6, FGR, KLRC2, KLRD1, KLRF1, S1PR5, SYTL3, XCL2, ZEB2
Annotation genes
KLRF1, XCL2, ZEB2
Annotation rationales
ZEB2 is a canonical transcription factor driving terminal effector CD8 differentiation (often paired with T-bet). KLR family receptors (KLRF1, KLRD1, KLRC2) indicate acquisition of NK-like cytotoxic traits, enhancing killing capacity and stress recognition. XCL2 encodes a chemokine recruiting dendritic cells, reinforcing crosstalk within effector niches. S1PR5 promotes tissue egress and circulation. This program points to a cell in active transition from Tcm toward peripheral effector memory with potent cytotoxic potential.
Functional implications
Functions as an effector-primed cytotoxic pool, optimized for rapid killing and tissue surveillance. These cells combine adaptive TCR specificity with innate-like NK receptor pathways, allowing them to eliminate infected or stressed targets broadly. They secrete chemokines (XCL2) to recruit antigen-presenting cells, reinforcing feedback loops. Functionally, they patrol peripheral tissues with heightened killing ability, positioning themselves as the frontline executioners once infection or inflammation emerges.
Marker and functional descriptions are atlas annotations. Explore gene expression, trait associations and regulatory elements in the interactive browsers; see the browser guide.