Multiple Choice
Which MHC class presents intracellular pathogens?
21. The Immune System
MHC and Antigen Presentation
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MHC class I is used to activate which of the following cell types?
A
Antigen presenting cells
B
Cytotoxic T cells
C
Helper T cells
D
Regulatory T cells
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of MHC class I molecules: MHC class I molecules are present on almost all nucleated cells and are responsible for presenting endogenous antigens (typically from intracellular pathogens like viruses) to the immune system.
Identify the type of T cell that interacts with MHC class I: Cytotoxic T cells (also known as CD8+ T cells) are the specific type of T cells that recognize antigens presented by MHC class I molecules.
Differentiate between the types of T cells: Helper T cells (CD4+ T cells) and Regulatory T cells do not interact with MHC class I. Instead, they interact with MHC class II molecules, which present exogenous antigens.
Recognize the function of Cytotoxic T cells: Once activated by the recognition of an antigen presented by MHC class I, Cytotoxic T cells can directly kill infected cells or cancerous cells.
Conclude that MHC class I is specifically used to activate Cytotoxic T cells, as they are the ones that recognize and respond to the antigens presented by these molecules.
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