Final answer:
Some T cells in the cell-mediated immune response release cytokines, which are signaling proteins that stimulate both specific and nonspecific immune defenses. Cytokines assist cytotoxic T cells in identifying and destroying infected or abnormal cells, such as cancer cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cell-mediated immunity involves a direct attack on diseased cells by T cells, and some T cells release cytokines that stimulate both specific (adaptive) and nonspecific defenses. These cytokines are crucial for the coordination of the immune response, aiding in the activation and proliferation of various immune cells, including additional T cells and macrophages. The cytokines released by T helper (Th) cells, in particular, play a vital role in orchestrating the immune system's response to infected or cancerous cells. This contrasts with B cells, which are part of the humoral immune branch and produce antibodies to target pathogens. Cytotoxic T cells (Tc), which are a key component of cell-mediated immunity, directly attack and destroy virus-infected cells or cancer cells with the help of the cytokines released by helper T cells.