Question

CD8+ cells require interaction with:

A. class I molecules
B. class II molecules
C. both class I and II
D. gamma delta cells

Answer 1

Option (A), CD8+ cells, also known as cytotoxic T lymphocytes, require interaction with class I molecules for activation and function, allowing them to identify and eliminate infected cells.

Step-by-step explanation:

CD8+ cells, which are also known as cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), require interaction with class I molecules of the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC). These CD8+ T cells are crucial for identifying and destroying cells that have been infected by pathogens, often through the process of apoptosis.

The class I MHC molecules present antigens derived from intracellular pathogens, and this presentation is key to the activation of CD8+ T cells. Unlike CD4+ T cells, which interact with class II MHC molecules found on professional antigen-presenting cells, the CD8+ cells are specialized to interact with class I MHC molecules found on all nucleated cells in the body.