Cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CD8+ T cell)

CD8+ T cells are a type of lymphocyte that plays a critical role in the adaptive immune system. They express the CD8 co-receptor on their surface and recognize antigens presented by MHC class I molecules. Their primary functions include direct killing of virus-infected and tumor cells through release of cytotoxic molecules and production of inflammatory cytokines. They develop in the thymus and can differentiate into various functional states including effector, memory, and exhausted phenotypes. While essential for immune defense, their dysregulation can contribute to autoimmunity and other pathological conditions.

Other names

Killer T cellCTLCD8+ T lymphocyteCytotoxic T cell

Direct cell killing via granzymes and perforins, Cytokine secretion, FasL-mediated apoptosis