IL-15Rα expression on CD8+T cells is dispensable for T cell memory

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Abstract
The generation and maintenance of immunological memory requires the activation, expansion, and persistent proliferation of antigen-specific T cells. Recent work suggests that IL-15 may be important for this process. Surprisingly, we now find that expression of the high-affinity receptor for IL-15, IL-15Rα, on T cells is dispensable for the generation or maintenance of memory CD8+ T cells. By contrast, IL-15Rα expression on cells other than T cells is absolutely critical for this function. These findings may be related to IL-15Rα9s ability to present IL-15 in trans to low-affinity IL-15Rβ/γc receptors on memory CD8+ T cells. These unexpected results provide insights into how IL-15Rα supports memory CD8+ T cells.