Which cells are responsible for killing virally infected host cells and tumor cells?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

CD8 T cells are also known as cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) and are responsible for recognizing and killing virally infected host cells and tumor cells. They do this by recognizing the viral or tumor epitope presented on the surface of the infected or tumor cell, which leads to the activation of the CD8 T cell and the release of cytotoxic molecules that kill the infected or tumor cell. CD4 T cells, on the other hand, help to activate and coordinate the immune response against pathogens or tumors by providing help to other immune cells, including B cells and CD8 T cells. Eosinophils, although involved in the immune response, are primarily responsible for fighting parasitic infections and are not typically involved in killing virally infected or tumor cells.

Which Cells Are Responsible for Killing Virally Infected Host Cells