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Multiple Choice
A helper T-lymphocyte becomes activated by a(n):
A
self-antigen on the surface of any body cell
B
free-floating antibody in the bloodstream
C
antigen presented by a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecule
D
antigen presented by a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecule
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of helper T-lymphocytes: Helper T-lymphocytes (also known as CD4+ T cells) are a type of immune cell that plays a crucial role in coordinating the immune response. They do not directly attack pathogens but instead help activate other immune cells.
Learn about antigen presentation: Antigens are molecules that the immune system recognizes as foreign. These antigens are presented to T cells by specialized molecules called major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins, which are found on the surface of certain cells.
Differentiate between MHC class I and MHC class II molecules: MHC class I molecules present antigens to cytotoxic T cells (CD8+ T cells), which are involved in killing infected or abnormal cells. MHC class II molecules, on the other hand, present antigens to helper T cells (CD4+ T cells).
Identify the cells that express MHC class II molecules: MHC class II molecules are expressed by antigen-presenting cells (APCs), such as dendritic cells, macrophages, and B cells. These cells process and present antigens to helper T cells to initiate an immune response.
Conclude that helper T-lymphocytes are activated by antigens presented by MHC class II molecules: When an APC presents an antigen bound to an MHC class II molecule, the helper T cell recognizes the antigen-MHC complex through its T cell receptor (TCR), leading to its activation.