Regulatory T cell memory: implications for malaria

Abstract Regulatory T cells (Tregs) can persist as memory cells (mTregs) in both infectious and non-infectious settings. However, their functional behavior, phenotypic stability, and suppressive properties upon antigen re-exposure remain poorly understood. Emerging evidence suggests that mTregs exhibit enhanced proliferation and suppressive capacity upon re-encountering the same antigen, a feature that may be critical in recurrent infections such as malaria. In malaria, Tregs are known to modulate immune responses and influence acute disease outcomes, suggesting that mTreg recall may play a significant role in long-term immunity. This review explores the biology of Treg memory, with a focus on malaria, and examines the immunological implications of maintaining a suppressive mTreg population in malaria immunity.