Helper T Cell (Noun)
Meaning
T cell with CD4 receptor that recognizes antigens on the surface of a virus-infected cell and secretes lymphokines that stimulate B cells and killer T cells; helper T cells are infected and killed by the AIDS virus.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- Helper T cells are vital in the body's immune response because they trigger the activation of other immune cells, such as B cells and cytotoxic T cells.
- CD4 T cells, also known as helper T cells, play a crucial role in activating and directing other immune cells to fight infections and diseases.
- Helper T cells recognize and bind to specific antigens presented by MHC class II molecules on the surface of antigen-presenting cells.
- During an HIV infection, helper T cells are targeted and destroyed by the virus, weakening the immune system and making the body more susceptible to secondary infections.
- In the context of immunotherapy, researchers are working to develop treatments that stimulate the production of specific helper T cells that can target and destroy cancer cells.