Activation / Activators & Cytotoxic T cell (CTL)

Cytotoxic T cell (CTL) refers to the process by which Cytotoxic T cell (CTL) are stimulated to perform their functions in the immune response. The mechanisms are: Antigen Presentation, Co-stimulatory Signals, Metabolic Changes, Cytokines

Antigen Presentation

Cytotoxic T cell (CTL) are activated when their T cell receptors (TCRs) recognize specific antigens presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class I molecules on the surface of antigen-presenting cells (APCs) such as dendritic cells.

Co-stimulatory Signals

Cytotoxic T cell (CTL) require co-stimulatory signals for full activation. Molecules such as CD96 and Toll-like receptor 2 provide these signals, enhancing T cell activation, proliferation, and effector functions
Zhang et al. 2019h J. Immunol 203: 2872
Chiang et al. 2020 Eur J Immunol. 50(6): 891-902

Metabolic Changes

Activation of Cytotoxic T cell (CTL) is associated with increased cellular metabolism, including glycolysis and glutaminolysis. These metabolic pathways provide the energy and biosynthetic materials necessary for T cell proliferation and function
Zhang et al. 2019h J. Immunol 203: 2872
Cao et al. 2023b Cell Death Dis. 14(7): 407

Cytokines

Interleukin-27 (IL-27) is crucial for the generation and function of Cytotoxic T cell (CTL). It aids in the differentiation of naive CD8+ T cells into functional CTLs and supports their proliferation and survival.
Morishima et al. 2010 Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology 2010: Article ID 605483

see also:
CD8+ mediated anti-tumor immunity