Abstract: The present invention relates to method of amplifying a population of antigen-specific memory CD4+ T cells using artificial presenting cells expressing HLA class II molecules. In particular, the present invention relates to a method of amplifying a population of antigen-specific memory CD4+ T cells comprising the steps of i) providing a population of artificial antigen presenting cells consisting host cells that are genetically modified to stably express at least one MHC class II molecule along with at least one accessory molecule ii) loading the population of artificial antigen presenting cells of step i) with an amount of at least one antigen of interest and iii) coculturing the suitable population of a T cells with the population of artificial antigen presenting cells of step ii).

Abstract: The invention provides an artificial antigen presenting cell (AAPC) comprising a eukaryotic cell expressing an antigen presenting complex comprising a human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecule of a single type, at least one exogenous accessory molecule and at least one exogenous T cell-specific epitope. Methods of use for activation of T lymphocytes are also provided.