Understand that T cells are a type of lymphocyte that play a central role in cell-mediated immunity.
Recognize that T cells do not recognize free-floating antigens. Instead, they recognize antigens that are presented by other cells.
Learn that peptide antigens are the primary type of antigens recognized by T cells. These peptides are typically derived from proteins that have been processed inside a cell.
Identify that Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules are responsible for presenting peptide antigens to T cells. MHC class I molecules present to CD8+ T cells, while MHC class II molecules present to CD4+ T cells.
Note that T cells can also recognize lipid antigens, but these are presented by CD1 molecules, not MHC molecules. This is a less common pathway compared to peptide antigen presentation.