👉 A cell weapon, also known as a cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) or CD8+ T cell, is a specialized type of immune cell that plays a crucial role in the body's defense against viruses and cancer cells. These cells recognize and target infected or abnormal cells by detecting specific antigens presented on the surface of these cells via MHC class I molecules. Once activated, CTLs proliferate and differentiate into effector cells that can directly kill the infected or cancerous cells through the release of cytotoxic granules containing perforin and granzymes, leading to apoptosis. This targeted killing mechanism is a key component of the adaptive immune response and helps maintain immune surveillance against pathogens and malignant cells.
