Adaptive Immunity: T Cells

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the role and function of T cells in adaptive immunity.

What is adaptive immunity?

Adaptive immunity is antigen-dependent and antigen-specific with a lag time in response.

What are the two main types of T cells?

CD4 (T helper) cells and CD8 (T cytotoxic) cells.

What do MHC Class I molecules bind to?

Peptides derived from proteins made in the cell itself.

What is the role of antigen presenting cells (APCs)?

APCs activate T lymphocytes by presenting antigens.

What is clonal expansion in T cell activation?

The process where activated T cells divide many times, producing clones.

What is the difference between innate and adaptive immunity?

Innate immunity is non-specific and immediate, while adaptive immunity is specific and has memory.

What are the primary functions of the adaptive immune response?

Recognition of non-self antigens, generation of effector pathways, and development of immunologic memory.

How do CD4 T helper cells recognize antigens?

By interacting with MHC Class II molecules on APCs.

How do CD8 cytotoxic T cells recognize antigens?

By interacting with MHC Class I molecules on infected cells.

What is a superantigen?

A superantigen non-specifically activates a large number of T cells.

What proteins do NK cells contain to kill target cells?

Perforin and granzymes.

What is the purpose of MHC molecules?

To allow immune cells to examine peptide antigens using T cell receptors.