T Cell Response

Definition

The T cell response is a crucial part of the adaptive immune system where T cells recognize and respond to specific antigens presented by antigen-presenting cells. This response is essential for the body's defense against pathogens and cancer cells, involving the activation, proliferation, and differentiation of T cells into effector cells that can eliminate infected or abnormal cells. The T cell response also plays a key role in immunogenic cell death, particularly in the context of therapies involving plasma.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The T cell response involves both CD4+ helper T cells and CD8+ cytotoxic T cells, each playing distinct roles in immune defense.
2. Activation of T cells requires two signals: recognition of a specific antigen and additional stimulation from co-stimulatory molecules.
3. Immunogenic cell death can enhance the T cell response by exposing more tumor antigens and promoting a stronger anti-tumor immune reaction.
4. Memory T cells are formed after an initial infection and provide long-lasting immunity by quickly responding to previously encountered antigens.
5. Plasma-induced immunogenic cell death can result in the release of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) that further stimulate T cell activation.

Review Questions

• How do antigen-presenting cells activate T cells in the immune response?
  • Antigen-presenting cells (APCs) play a vital role in activating T cells by processing and presenting specific antigens on their surface using major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules. When a T cell's receptor recognizes this antigen-MHC complex, it receives a primary signal for activation. A second signal is provided by co-stimulatory molecules on the APC interacting with receptors on the T cell, leading to full activation and proliferation of the T cell.
• Discuss the significance of memory T cells in relation to the T cell response and immunological memory.
  • Memory T cells are critical for maintaining long-term immunity following an initial infection or vaccination. After an effective primary T cell response, some activated T cells differentiate into memory T cells, which persist in the body. These memory cells enable a faster and more robust response upon re-exposure to the same pathogen, making them essential for preventing reinfection and enhancing vaccine efficacy.
• Evaluate how immunogenic cell death induced by plasma can affect the T cell response in cancer therapy.
  • Immunogenic cell death induced by plasma can significantly enhance the T cell response against tumors. This process increases the visibility of tumor antigens, making them more recognizable to T cells, while also releasing DAMPs that further stimulate immune activation. By creating a more favorable environment for T cell infiltration and activity, plasma therapies can potentially improve the effectiveness of immunotherapy in treating cancers, leading to better patient outcomes.

Related terms

Antigen-Presenting Cells (APCs): Cells that display antigens on their surface to T cells, initiating the immune response.

Cytotoxic T Cells: A subtype of T cells that directly kill infected or cancerous cells by recognizing specific antigens.

Helper T Cells: T cells that assist other immune cells by releasing cytokines, enhancing the immune response.