Abstract: Hepatitis B virus（HBV） specific CD8⁺T cells play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of HBV infection. It is not only involved in the HBV inhibition and clearance,but also in the progress of the illness. Immune response is the key factor that determines whether HBV infection is gone or remained. This paper mainly discussed the latest research progress related to the phenotypes and functions of HBV specific CD8⁺T cells in the acute phase and chronic phase of HBV infection, and summarized updates on basic research of CD8⁺T cells,aiming at providing a further understanding of what roles CD8⁺T cells play in virus clearance at different stages of HBV infection. Meanwhile,we made an introduction of novel in vitro immune system model of HBV specific CD8⁺T cells,as well as innovative techniques to detect HBV-specific CD8⁺T cell,the advantage and significance of which is incomparable by any traditional methods.

Key words: Hepatitis B, CD8+T cells, Pathogenesis