Cell-mediated immune response

Definition

Cell-mediated immune response is a type of adaptive immunity where T cells directly attack infected or abnormal cells. It is crucial for fighting intracellular pathogens like viruses and certain bacteria.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. T cells are the primary players in cell-mediated immunity.
2. Helper T cells (CD4+) aid in activating other immune cells, while cytotoxic T cells (CD8+) directly kill infected or abnormal cells.
3. Cell-mediated immunity does not involve antibodies but relies on the direct action of T cells.
4. It is essential for controlling viral infections, some bacterial infections, and cancerous cells.
5. Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules present antigens to T cells to initiate the cell-mediated immune response.

Review Questions

• What role do cytotoxic T cells play in cell-mediated immunity?
• How do Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules contribute to cell-mediated immunity?
• Why is cell-mediated immunity important in fighting viral infections?

Related terms

Antigen: A substance that triggers an immune response by being recognized as foreign by the immune system.

Helper T Cells (CD4+): A type of T cell that assists other white blood cells in immunologic processes, including activation of cytotoxic T cells and B cells.

Cytokines:

Signaling proteins released by cells that have a specific effect on interactions and communications between cells during immune responses.