IFN-α primes T- and NK-cells for IL-15-mediated signaling and cytotoxicity

► IFN-α plays a key role in both innate and adaptive immune responses. ► IFN-α leads to the production of IL-15, a functional activator of NK and T cells. ► Here, we study the priming effect of IFN-α on the effect of IL-15 in human T and NK cells. ► IFN-α increases IL-15Rα expression and IL-15-induced signaling and cytotoxicity. ► IFN-α thus boosts signaling and functional effects of IL-15 in human T and NK cells.