Evidence for these novel characteristics of rRv0652 include: 1) increased expression of surface molecules (CD80/CD86); 2) involvement of the MyD88- and TRIF-pathways in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines induced by Rv0652 in DCs; 3) DC activation was not due to endotoxin contamination and occurred via TLR4 but not TLR2 signaling; 4) there is an increased migratory capacity in Rv0652-DCs; 5) the effect of Rv0652-DCs on the expansion of IFN-gamma-producing CD4+ and CD8+ T cells; and 6) significantly elevated Ag-specific CTL antitumor activity against an E.G7-OVA expressing thymoma. The gene discussed is TLR2; the disease is thymoma.