Memory CD4 T cells enhance primary CD8 T-cell responses

Infect Immun. 2007 Jul;75(7):3556-60. doi: 10.1128/IAI.00086-07. Epub 2007 Apr 16.

Abstract

CD4 T-cell help is required for optimal memory CD8 T-cell responses. We have found that engaging preexisting CD4 Th1, but not Th2, memory cells at the time of CD8 T-cell priming results in increased CD8 effector responses to both bacterial and viral pathogens. The enhanced responses are characterized by increased numbers of cytokine-producing, antigen-specific cells. These findings suggest that engaging endogenous memory Th1 cells may increase cellular responses in an immunotherapy or vaccination setting.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes / immunology*
  • CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes / immunology*
  • Dendritic Cells / immunology
  • Immunization
  • Immunologic Memory*
  • Listeria monocytogenes / immunology
  • Listeria monocytogenes / pathogenicity
  • Listeriosis / immunology
  • Listeriosis / microbiology
  • Listeriosis / prevention & control
  • Lymphocyte Activation*
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Ovalbumin / immunology
  • Propionibacterium acnes / immunology
  • Th1 Cells

Substances

  • Ovalbumin