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Describe the specific roles of helper, regulatory, and cytotoxic T cells in normal cell mediated immunity

User Naincy
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Final answer:

Helper T cells coordinate the immune response by activating other cells, regulatory T cells prevent overactive immune responses, and cytotoxic T cells target and destroy infected cells.

Step-by-step explanation:

Helper T cells are central to the immune response, functioning as managers by releasing cytokines that activate various immune cells. They enhance the pathogen-killing abilities of macrophages and innate immune cells such as NK cells. Regulatory T cells, on the other hand, maintain immune system balance by preventing overactive responses that can lead to autoimmune diseases. They play a key role in peripheral tolerance. Lastly, cytotoxic T cells serve as primary effectors in cellular immunity, targeting and destroying cells infected by pathogens, thereby containing the infection.

Each class of T cells is identifiable by specific surface molecules and is activated in different manners. These distinct functions ensure that the body has a coordinated and effective immune response to pathogens while avoiding damage to self-tissues.

User Nikita Barsukov
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