Human CD4(+) effector T lymphocytes generated upon TCR engagement with self-peptides respond defectively to IL-7 in their transition to memory cells.

The peripheral repertoire of CD4(+) T lymphocytes contains autoreactive cells that remain tolerant through several mechanisms. However, nonspecific CD4(+) T cells can be activated in physiological conditions as in the course of an ongoing immune response, and their outcome is not yet fully understood. Here, we investigate the fate of human naive CD4(+) lymphocytes activated by dendritic cells (DCs) presenting endogenous self-peptides in comparison with lymphocytes involved in alloresponses.