Phenotype and function of protective, CD4-independent CD8 T cell memory

While the need for CD4 T cells in the generation of CD8 T cell memory has been well documented, the mechanism underlying their requirement remains unknown. Here, we detail an immunization method capable of generating CD8 memory T cells that are indifferent to CD4 T cell help. Using a subunit vaccination that combines polyIC and an agonistic CD40 antibody, we program protective CD4-independent CD8 T cell memory. When cells generated by combined polyIC/CD40 immunization are compared to cells produced following a CD4-dependent vaccination, Listeria monocytogenes, they display dramatic differences, both phenotypically and functionally. The memory cells generated in a CD4-deficient host by polyIC/CD40 immunization provide protection against secondary infectious challenge, whereas cells generated by LM immunization in the same environment do not. Interestingly, combined polyIC/CD40 immunization generates long-term memory cells with low Blimp-1 and elevated Eomes expression despite high expression of Blimp-1 during the primary response. The potency of combined polyIC/CD40 to elicit CD8+ T cell memory in the absence of CD4 T cells suggests that it could be considered as a vaccine adjuvant in clinical situations where CD4 responses/numbers are compromised.