Question

The process by which cytotoxic T cells kill their targets involves _____. (Select all that apply.)

a. inducing the target cell to undergo necrosis

b. inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death) in the cytotoxic T cell

c. DNA fragmentation in lengths of multiples of 200 base pairs in the target cell

d. shedding of membrane-bound vesicles and shrinking of the target cell

e. release of granzyme, perforin, and granulysin by the cytotoxic T cell.

Answer 1

The process of killing by cytotoxic T cells involves inducing apoptosis, releasing granzyme, perforin, and granulysin, and shedding of membrane-bound vesicles and shrinking of the target cell.

Step-by-step explanation:

The process by which cytotoxic T cells kill their targets involves:

1. Inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death) in the cytotoxic T cell
2. Release of granzyme, perforin, and granulysin by the cytotoxic T cells
3. Shedding of membrane-bound vesicles and shrinking of the target cell

Cytotoxic T cells recognize infected cells through antigen presentation of pathogen-specific epitopes associated with MHC I. Once an infected cell is recognized, the TCR of the cytotoxic T cell binds to the epitope and releases perforin and granzymes that induce apoptosis in the target cell.

This mechanism allows for controlled and efficient destruction of infected cells without releasing the pathogens inside. The cytotoxic T cells also release granzyme, perforin, and granulysin, which further contribute to the killing of the target cells.