What role do CD8 T cells play in virus infections?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the specific role of CD8 T cells during viral infections, including their function and significance in the immune response.
Answer
CD8 T cells mediate viral clearance by killing virus-infected cells and producing antiviral cytokines.
CD8 T cells play a crucial role in virus infections by mediating viral clearance. They do this by inducing apoptosis of virus-infected cells through direct cell–cell contact and via the secretion of antiviral cytokines like interferon-γ (IFN-γ). Memory CD8 T cells also provide protection against secondary infections by reducing viral loads.
Answer for screen readers
CD8 T cells play a crucial role in virus infections by mediating viral clearance. They do this by inducing apoptosis of virus-infected cells through direct cell–cell contact and via the secretion of antiviral cytokines like interferon-γ (IFN-γ). Memory CD8 T cells also provide protection against secondary infections by reducing viral loads.
More Information
CD8 T cells, also known as cytotoxic T cells, are a type of lymphocyte that are essential for the immune system's ability to target and kill cells infected with viruses as well as some cancerous cells. They accomplish this through mechanisms such as inducing apoptosis in target cells and releasing cytokines that enhance immune responses.
Sources
- The CD8 T Cell Response to Respiratory Virus Infections - Frontiers - frontiersin.org
- Activation of CD8 T Lymphocytes during Viral Infections - PMC - pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- The web page with info on - Example Source - pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
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