Cytotoxic T-cell mediated lysis

Cytotoxic T-cell mediated lysis refers to the process by which cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs, also known as CD8+ T cells) recognize and destroy target cells, such as virus-infected or malignant cells. This is a key mechanism of adaptive immunity, where CTLs identify infected or abnormal cells via antigens presented on MHC class I molecules and induce apoptosis through the release of cytotoxic granules containing perforin and granzymes, or by engaging death receptors like Fas on target cells[1][2][3]. While this process is essential for immune defense against intracellular pathogens and tumors, its dysregulation can contribute to excessive tissue damage or autoimmunity[1]. Note on correctness: "Cytotoxic T-cell mediated lysis" describes a biological process, not a specific molecule, receptor, enzyme, transporter, or canonical drug target. Therefore it is not considered a therapeutic target in the conventional sense used in pharmacology or drug development. The correct targets would be specific molecules involved in this pathway (e.g., CD8 receptor, perforin, granzyme B), but "cytotoxic T-cell mediated lysis" itself is not a molecular entity[6].