T cytoxic cells- TCR- CD8
binds MHC I–> signal transduction
T Cytoxic cells, also known as CD8+ T cells, are specialized White Blood Cells (WBCs) that play a crucial role in the immune system’s defense against infectious agents, cancerous cells, and other types of abnormal cells. These cells are called “cytotoxic” because they have the ability to recognize, bind to, and destroy infected or cancerous cells.
TCR (T Cell Receptor) is a specialized protein found on the surface of T cells and plays a critical role in recognizing and binding to specific antigens (foreign substances) presented by the infected or cancerous cells.
CD8 is a protein marker found on the surface of T cells that have developed into cytotoxic T cells. This protein is important in targeting the appropriate cells for destruction and activating the cytotoxic response.
The activation of CD8+ T cells happens when the TCR recognizes specific antigens presented on the surface of infected cells via Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) Class I molecules. Once activated, the CD8+ T cells release toxic substances such as perforin and granzymes to kill the infected or cancerous cells.
In summary, T cytoxic cells (CD8+ T cells) play a crucial role in the immune system by recognizing and destroying infected or cancerous cells. The recognition and binding process is facilitated by TCR, while CD8 protein marker helps to activate the cytotoxic response.
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