Nucleated cells

Definition

Nucleated cells contain a nucleus and are involved in various cellular processes, including the immune response. They present antigens via Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules to T-cells.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nucleated cells express MHC class I molecules on their surface.
2. They play a crucial role in presenting intracellular antigens to cytotoxic T-cells.
3. Dendritic cells, macrophages, and B-cells are specific types of nucleated cells that act as antigen-presenting cells (APCs).
4. MHC class I molecules present peptides derived from proteins synthesized within the cell.
5. The recognition of antigen-MHC complexes by T-cell receptors is essential for initiating an adaptive immune response.

Review Questions

• What type of MHC molecules do nucleated cells express?
• How do nucleated cells contribute to the immune response?
• Which specific types of nucleated cells function as antigen-presenting cells?

Related terms

Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC): A set of cell surface proteins essential for acquired immune system recognition of foreign molecules.

Antigen-Presenting Cells (APCs): Cells that display foreign antigens complexed with MHCs on their surfaces.

Cytotoxic T-cells: A subset of T-cells that kill cancer cells, cells that are infected with viruses, or damaged cells.