Ex vivo activation of naturally occurring IL-17-producing T cells does not require IL-6

► We here study the relationship between IL-6 and IL-17 production in thymocytes. ► We find that activation of nT17 cells does not depend on IL-6. ► Moreover, nT17 cells are not regulated by IL-2. ► nT17 cells therefore differ in crucial aspects from induced IL-17 producing T cells. ► Closer characterization of nT17 cells in regard of autoimmune disease is warranted.