Control of Homeostasis of CD8 + Memory T Cells by Opposing Cytokines

Authors

Chia‐Chi Ku

Published

April 28, 2000

Abstract

Memory T cells maintain their numbers for long periods after antigen exposure. Here we show that CD8 + T cells of memory phenotype divide slowly in animals. This division requires interleukin-15 and is markedly increased by inhibition of interleukin-2 (IL-2). Therefore, the numbers of CD8 + memory T cells in animals are controlled by a balance between IL-15 and IL-2.