The transcription factor Interferon Regulatory Factor 4 is required for the generation of protective effector CD8 + T cells

Robust cytotoxic CD8 + T-cell response is important for immunity to intracellular pathogens. Here, we show that the transcription factor IFN Regulatory Factor 4 (IRF4) is crucial for the protective CD8 + T-cell response to the intracellular bacterium Listeria monocytogenes . IRF4-deficient ( Irf4 −/− ) mice could not clear L. monocytogenes infection and generated decreased numbers of L. monocytogenes -specific CD8 + T cells with impaired effector phenotype and function. Transfer of wild-type CD8 + T cells into Irf4 −/− mice improved bacterial clearance, suggesting an intrinsic defect of CD8 + T cells in Irf4 −/− mice. Following transfer into wild-type recipients, Irf4 −/− CD8 + T cells bec…