Distinct phases in the positive selection of CD8+ T cells distinguished by intrathymic migration and T-cell receptor signaling patterns

Abstract Positive selection of CD8 T cells in the thymus is thought to be a multistep process lasting 3–4 d; however, the discrete steps involved are poorly understood. Here, we examine phenotypic changes, calcium signaling, and intrathymic migration in a synchronized cohort of MHC class I-specific thymocytes undergoing positive selection in situ. Transient elevations in intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) and migratory pauses occurred throughout the first 24 h of positive selection, becoming progressively briefer and accompanied by a gradual shift in basal [Ca2+]i over time. Changes in chemokine-receptor expression and relocalization from the cortex to medulla occurred between 12 and 24 h after the initial encounter with positive-selecting ligands, a time frame at which the majority of thymocytes retain CD4 and CD8 expression and still require T-cell receptor (TCR) signaling to efficiently complete positive selection. Our results identify distinct phases in the positive selection of MHC class I-specific thymocytes that are distinguished by their TCR-signaling pattern and intrathymic location and provide a framework for understanding the multistep process of positive selection in the thymus.