Question

Cytokines released by TH1 cells?

1) convert B cells to T cells
2) convert TH1 cells to TH₂ cells
3) convert TH₂ cells to TH1 cells
4) activate Cd₈⁺ cells to CTLs
5) kill parasites

Answer 1

TH1 cells release cytokines that primarily function to activate CD8+ cells into cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), enhancing their killing capacity of infected cells and supporting the immune system.

Step-by-step explanation:

The cytokines released by TH1 cells do not convert B cells to T cells, convert TH1 cells to TH2 cells, or convert TH2 cells to TH1 cells. Instead, one of their key functions is to activate CD8+ cells into cytotoxic lymphocytes (CTLs). TH1 cells secrete their own cytokines that are involved in stimulating and orchestrating other cells involved in adaptive and innate immunity. Specifically, they help in the activation of cytotoxic T cells, enhancing their ability to kill infected cells and promoting their differentiation into memory CTLs. Moreover, TH1 cells stimulate macrophages, neutrophils, and NK cells to become more effective at eliminating intracellular bacteria and potentially tumor cells.