Final answer:
Loss of cross-presentation by dendritic cells would lead to reduced activation of CD8 T cells and an inadequate immune response to intracellular pathogens, potentially resulting in persistent infections.
Step-by-step explanation:
The theoretical consequence for the loss of cross-presentation by dendritic cells would be a significant impairment in the immune system's ability to fight certain infections, particularly those of intracellular pathogens like viruses. Normally, dendritic cells are critical in cross-presenting antigens on MHC class I molecules to CD8 T cells, thus initiating a cytotoxic response against these pathogens. Without cross-presentation, CD8 T cells might not be properly activated, leading to inadequate immune responses to intracellular pathogens, potentially resulting in persistent infections and disease progression.