What is the primary function of T cytotoxic cells?

• A. To activate B cells for antibody production
• B. To produce antibodies against pathogens
• C. To suppress the immune response
• D. To directly kill infected host cells

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of T cytotoxic cells in the immune system. These cells are a type of T lymphocyte that play a crucial role in the body's defense against pathogens.
2. Recognize that T cytotoxic cells are primarily involved in the direct killing of infected host cells. They identify and destroy cells that have been compromised by viruses or other intracellular pathogens.
3. Differentiate between the functions of various immune cells. For example, B cells are responsible for antibody production, while T helper cells assist in activating B cells and other immune responses.
4. Learn how T cytotoxic cells recognize infected cells. They use receptors to detect antigens presented by infected cells, which triggers their cytotoxic activity.
5. Explore the mechanism of action of T cytotoxic cells. Once they recognize an infected cell, they release perforins and granzymes that induce apoptosis, effectively killing the infected cell.