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Multiple Choice
Cytotoxic T cells will bind with their T-cell receptor (TCR) to which of the following?
A
Free-floating antigens in the bloodstream
B
MHC class I molecules presenting antigen
C
B-cell receptors on B lymphocytes
D
MHC class II molecules presenting antigen
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of cytotoxic T cells: Cytotoxic T cells are a type of immune cell that play a crucial role in the body's defense against infected or cancerous cells. They are part of the adaptive immune system and are responsible for directly killing cells that display foreign antigens.
Learn about T-cell receptors (TCRs): TCRs are molecules found on the surface of T cells, including cytotoxic T cells. They are responsible for recognizing antigens presented by other cells. The specificity of TCRs allows T cells to identify and bind to specific antigens.
Explore the concept of MHC molecules: Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules are proteins found on the surface of cells that present antigens to T cells. There are two main classes: MHC class I and MHC class II. MHC class I molecules are present on almost all nucleated cells and present endogenous antigens, typically from viruses or intracellular pathogens.
Identify the interaction between cytotoxic T cells and MHC class I molecules: Cytotoxic T cells specifically bind to antigens presented by MHC class I molecules. This interaction is crucial for the immune response against infected or abnormal cells, as it allows cytotoxic T cells to recognize and destroy these cells.
Clarify why cytotoxic T cells do not bind to other options: Cytotoxic T cells do not bind to free-floating antigens in the bloodstream, B-cell receptors on B lymphocytes, or MHC class II molecules presenting antigen. These interactions are not part of the cytotoxic T cell's function, which is focused on recognizing antigens presented by MHC class I molecules.