Taken together, these data demonstrate that NOD-Ncf1m1J DCs can efficiently prime diabetogenic CD8+ T cells when antigen processing is not required, and thereby, highlight the potential significance of NADPH oxidase 2 in processing of autoantigens for presentation by MHC Class I. In addition, these data provide support for ROS in regulating T1D through antigen-cross presentation by DC, a concept has not previously been proposed or discussed. Here, CD8A is linked to type 1 diabetes mellitus.