This study builds on previous findings by demonstrating the ability of Immuno-STAT constructs, engineered to incorporate sc-pMHC and CD28 costimulatory modules, to activate and expand human naive CD8+ T cells specific for the melanoma-associated MART-1 antigen, and most importantly, the HIV Gag-derived SL9 antigen in individuals without HIV. This evidence concerns the gene CD8A and melanoma.