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Target intelligence / Profile preview
CD8-positive, alpha-beta Cytotoxic T Cell (CTL)
- Target
- CTL
- Molecular classification
- T lymphocyte, Immune cell
01
Overview
CD8-positive, alpha-beta cytotoxic T cells (CTLs), also known as killer T cells or CD8+ T cells, are a subset of T lymphocytes that play a central role in the adaptive immune response. They identify and eliminate infected or malignant host cells by recognizing antigens presented on MHC I molecules. Upon activation, they kill target cells through the release of cytolytic granules (perforin and granzymes), Fas/FasL interactions, and cytokine secretion (TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma). Their cytotoxicity is highly specific, minimizing collateral tissue damage. They are essential for cellular immunity against intracellular pathogens and cancerous self-cells.
- Other names
- Cytotoxic T LymphocyteKiller T cellCD8+ T cell
02
Biological functions
Adaptive immune responseCell-mediated cytotoxicityAntigen recognitionTarget cell killingCytokine productionImmune regulation
03
Disease associations
Viral infectionCancerAutoimmunityImmunodeficiency
04
Safety considerations
Cytokine release syndromeOff-target cytotoxicityAutoimmunity
05
Biomarkers
CD8 expressionIFN-gamma productionGranzyme B expressionFasL expression
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