The Role of T Cytotoxic Cells in Immunity and Cancer Defense

T cytoxic cells- TCR- CD8

binds MHC I–> signal transduction

1. What are T cytotoxic 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 system. These cells are responsible for recognizing and destroying cells that are infected with viruses or cancer cells.

2. What is TCR?

TCR stands for T-cell receptor. It is a protein molecule that is found on the surface of T cells and plays a critical role in recognizing and binding to antigen-presenting cells (APCs) presenting foreign antigens.

3. What is CD8?

CD8 is a protein that is found on the surface of T cytotoxic cells. It plays a crucial role in the ability of T cells to recognize and destroy abnormal cells. CD8+ T cells form a complex with the TCR, and together they bind to the foreign antigens that are presented by APCs.

4. How do T cytotoxic cells function?

When a T cytotoxic cell recognizes a foreign antigen on an infected or cancerous cell, the cell will release cytokines and undergo a series of signaling events that lead to the activation of the CD8+ T cell. The TCR and CD8 complex then bind to the foreign antigen and signal the cell to release cytotoxic molecules such as perforin and granzyme. These molecules enter the infected or cancerous cell and initiate its destruction.

5. What are the clinical implications of T cytotoxic cells?

T cytotoxic cells play a crucial role in protecting the body against infection and cancer. However, a dysfunction in these cells can lead to several clinical conditions such as immunodeficiency, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate the function of T cytotoxic cells is essential for developing new treatments for these conditions. Additionally, T cytotoxic cell-based therapies have been developed and investigated for the treatment of certain cancers.

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