Study note

MHC-associated antigen recognition by helper and cytotoxic T cells

THE CONTEXT

T cells recognise antigens presented with MHC molecules; helper and cytotoxic T cells differ in the MHC class involved and their resulting actions.

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Helper T cells react with antigens displayed on macrophages or other cells in association with MHC Class II molecules.

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They release cytokines that activate macrophages, enabling the macrophages to kill intracellular parasites.

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Cytotoxic T cells recognise surface antigens on target cells in association with MHC Class I molecules.

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They secrete cytokines and destroy target cells, including the virus-infected, tumour or allograft cells described in the passage.

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