Final answer:
MHC class I molecules (HLA-A, -B, and -C) present antigens to cytotoxic T cells or CD8+ T cells for recognition of infected or cancerous cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
MHC class I molecules, specifically HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-C, present antigens to cytotoxic T cells or CD8+ T cells. These T cells recognize antigens presented by MHC class I molecules on the surface of nucleated cells that are infected with intracellular pathogens or cancerous cells. The MHC class I molecules present abnormal or nonself antigens for the activation of cytotoxic T cells and the subsequent destruction of the infected or cancerous cells.