Within lymphopenic recipients, naïve T cells undergo proliferation that is induced by
homeostatic mechanisms. Earlier studies have demonstrated that commensal antigens play
a key role in inducing the proliferation. However, a relative contribution of endogenous self
antigens in this process has not been formally investigated. In this study, we utilized a
pharmacologic inhibitor that blocks T cell egress from the lymphoid tissues, antibiotics, and
germ-free animals to examine the role of commensal and self antigens. The results suggest …