Killer T cells are a type of immune cell that primarily function to eliminate specific targeted cells within the body. They play a crucial role in the immune system's defense mechanisms.
How Killer T Cells Work
Killer T cells, also known as cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), are adept at recognizing and destroying cells that are deemed harmful or abnormal. According to the provided reference, these cells target:
- Foreign Cells: This includes cells from transplanted organs or tissues, which the body identifies as non-self.
- Cancer Cells: Killer T cells can recognize and attack cancerous cells, thereby contributing to the body's fight against tumors.
- Virus-Infected Cells: When a virus invades a cell, killer T cells can identify and destroy the infected cell, preventing further viral replication.
Key Functions of Killer T Cells
Here is a breakdown of the important roles killer T cells play:
1. Targeted Cell Destruction
Killer T cells don’t attack just any cell; instead, they are highly specific. They recognize target cells by the presence of specific antigens (markers) on their surfaces. When a killer T cell encounters a cell displaying a matching antigen, it activates its killing mechanisms. This process involves:
- Releasing Cytotoxic Granules: Killer T cells release substances that create pores in the target cell’s membrane, leading to cell lysis (breakdown).
- Inducing Apoptosis: Killer T cells can also signal the target cell to undergo programmed cell death (apoptosis), a controlled way to eliminate unwanted cells.
2. Immune Surveillance
- Killer T cells are constantly monitoring the body for abnormal cells. This constant surveillance helps detect and eliminate cancerous cells early on before they can develop into larger tumors.
3. Clinical Applications
- Because of their targeted killing ability, scientists are exploring ways to harness killer T cells for therapeutic purposes. One example from the provided text, shows that killer T cells can be separated from other blood cells, grown in the laboratory, and then given to a patient to kill cancer cells, a process known as adoptive cell therapy.
Why Are They Important?
Killer T cells are essential for:
- Fighting Infections: Eliminating virus-infected cells.
- Cancer Control: Destroying cancerous cells and preventing tumor growth.
- Transplant Rejection: The mechanism behind why organ transplants can be rejected by the body.
In summary, killer T cells are a critical component of the immune system, specializing in the targeted destruction of compromised or foreign cells.
