Priming of cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses by dendritic cells: induction of potent anti-tumor immune responses

Abstract

It is well established that CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) play a major role in eradicating tumor cells. The path from naive CD8+ T cell to effector CD8+ T cell is guided by antigen presenting cells, such as dendritic cells (DCs) that start a developmental program in the CD8+ T cells through the delivery of MHC/peptide complexes, co-stimulatory and pro-inflammatory signals. These signals determine the magnitude of the ensuing response and the ability of the CD8+ CTLs to successfully complete their quest, eradicating tumor cells whilst conquering enemies, such as immunosuppressive regulatory T cells (Tregs). In this chapter, we discuss the role of DCs and of the signals critical for effector CD8+ T cell differentiation, and how the differences in the nature of these signals contribute to the diversity of CD8+ T cell responses