T cytoxic cells- TCR- CD8
T cytotoxic cells, also known as CD8+ T cells, are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune response against pathogens and infected cells
T cytotoxic cells, also known as CD8+ T cells, are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune response against pathogens and infected cells. They are part of the adaptive immune system and are responsible for directly killing virus-infected cells and cancer cells.
TCR, or T cell receptor, is a protein found on the surface of T cells, including CD8+ T cells. It is responsible for recognizing and binding to specific antigens presented by infected or cancerous cells. TCRs are highly diverse and can recognize a wide range of antigens. When a TCR binds to its specific antigen, it triggers a cascade of signaling events within the T cell, leading to cell activation and the initiation of an immune response.
CD8 is a co-receptor protein found on the surface of CD8+ T cells. It interacts with MHC class I molecules, which are found on the surface of nearly all nucleated cells in the body. MHC class I molecules present antigens derived from pathogens or abnormal proteins produced within the cell to the immune system. The CD8 co-receptor enhances the binding of the TCR to the antigen-MHC complex, thereby increasing the sensitivity of CD8+ T cells to antigen recognition.
Once a CD8+ T cell recognizes its target antigen through the TCR and CD8 co-receptor interaction, it becomes activated. This activation leads to the production and secretion of cytotoxic molecules such as perforin and granzymes. Perforin creates pores in the cell membrane of the target cell, allowing the entry of granzymes. Granzymes are proteases that induce programmed cell death, known as apoptosis, in the infected or cancerous cell. Additionally, CD8+ T cells secrete cytokines such as interferon-gamma, which activate other immune cells and enhance the immune response against the antigens.
Overall, T cytotoxic cells with their TCR and CD8 co-receptor are vital in identifying and eliminating infected or cancerous cells in the body. They play a crucial role in immune defense and are essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.
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