Cd8 T Cell (Noun)
Meaning
T cell with CD8 receptor that recognizes antigens on the surface of a virus-infected cell and binds to the infected cell and kill it.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- CD8 T cells are essential components of the adaptive immune system that target and eliminate virus-infected cells.
- A CD8 T cell with the correct antigen specificity will bind to the surface of an infected cell displaying the matching viral antigen and initiate its destruction.
- In order for the CD8 T cell to function effectively, it must recognize and bind to specific antigens presented by major histocompatibility complex class I molecules on the surface of infected cells.
- When a CD8 T cell identifies a cell displaying a viral antigen on its surface, it becomes activated to produce cytotoxic factors that directly kill the infected cell.
- Activated CD8 T cells use their cytotoxic capabilities to target and destroy virus-infected cells that would otherwise replicate and spread the virus.