Effector cells

Definition

Effector cells are differentiated immune cells that actively respond to a pathogen. They include various types of T cells, B cells, and other immune cells involved in the adaptive immune response.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Effector cells include cytotoxic T cells, helper T cells, and plasma B cells.
2. Cytotoxic T cells directly kill infected host cells.
3. Helper T cells activate other immune cells by releasing cytokines.
4. Plasma B cells produce antibodies specific to antigens.
5. Effector cell activation is a key step in the adaptive immune response.

Review Questions

Related terms

Cytotoxic_T_Cell: A type of effector cell that kills virus-infected or cancerous host cells.

Helper_T_Cell: A type of effector cell that releases cytokines to activate other immune responses.

Plasma_B_Cell: A type of effector cell that produces antibodies specific to antigens.