A type of T lymphocyte that can recognize specific abnormal or infected cells and, when appropriately activated, directly destroy them.
CD8 T lymphocytes, commonly called CD8 T cells or cytotoxic T cells, are an important component of cell-mediated immunity. They recognize specific antigen fragments displayed on the surface of infected or abnormal cells and can trigger the targeted destruction of those cells.
CD8 T cells are particularly important in controlling infections caused by viruses and in identifying and eliminating some abnormal cells. They also form memory populations that can respond more rapidly when the same target is encountered again.
QUICK FACT
CD8 T cells do not generally attack infectious agents floating freely in the body. Their major role is to recognize and eliminate infected or abnormal cells displaying specific targets.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
CD4 T lymphocyte: CD4 T cells primarily help coordinate and regulate immune responses, while CD8 T cells can directly kill infected or abnormal cells.
SEE ALSO