Mycobacterial Antigen-Specific T Cell (Mtb-Ag-Specific T Cell)

Mycobacterial antigen-specific T cells are a diverse group of T lymphocytes that recognize and respond to antigens derived from mycobacteria, such as *Mycobacterium tuberculosis* (Mtb). These antigens can be proteins or lipids presented by various antigen-presenting molecules, including classical MHC class I and II, as well as non-classical CD1 molecules. They mediate protection primarily through cytokine secretion (IFN-γ and TNF-α) which activates macrophages for intracellular killing of mycobacteria and direct cytotoxicity against infected host cells. Memory subsets maintain long-term immunity.

Other names

Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigen-specific T cellMtb-specific T cellT cell response to Mycobacterium tuberculosisTB-specific T cell

Cytokine-mediated macrophage activation, direct cytotoxicity of infected cells.