CD8(+) T cells mediate CD40-independent maturation of dendritic cells in vivo

Induction of cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses against minor histocomp atibility antigens is dependent upon the presence of T cell help and requir es the interaction of CD40 on dendritic cells (DCs) with CD40 ligand on act ivated T helper cells (Th). This study demonstrates that CD40 is neither in volved in Th-dependent nor Th-independent antiviral CTL responses. Moreover , the data show that DC maturation occurs in vivo after viral infection in the absence of CD40 and Th. This maturation did not require viral infection of DCs but was mediated by peptide-specific CD8(+) T cells. Surprisingly, naive CD8(+) T cells were able to trigger DC maturation within 24 h after a ctivation in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, peptide-activated CD8(+) T cells were able to induce maturation in trans, as DCs that failed to present the relevant antigen in vivo also underwent maturation. Upon isolation, the in vivo-stimulated DCs were able to convert a classically Th-dependent CTL res ponse (anti-HY) into a Th-independent response in vitro. Thus, antiviral CD 8(+) T cells are sufficient for the maturation of DCs in the absence of CD4 0.