What is the role of T cells in the immune response?

T cells play a crucial role in the immune response primarily by recognizing and responding to infected or abnormal cells. They have several subsets with specific functions, including cytotoxic T cells, which directly kill infected or cancerous cells, and helper T cells, which assist in activating other immune cells such as B cells and macrophages. This coordination enhances the overall immune response, making it more effective.

The ability of T cells to kill infected cells helps to eliminate pathogens that have already invaded cells, while their role in activating other immune components ensures that the body mounts a comprehensive defense against a variety of threats. This dual function is critical in controlling infections and maintaining immune homeostasis, establishing T cells as central players in adaptive immunity.