Which of the following immune system molecules creates pores in the cell membrane of their target cells to destroy the cell?

Rationale

Perforins create pores in the cell membrane of their target cells to destroy the cell.

Perforins are proteins released by cytotoxic T cells and natural killer cells that form pores in the membranes of infected or cancerous cells, leading to cell lysis. This mechanism is crucial for the immune system's ability to eliminate compromised cells and maintain overall health.

A (Lymphotoxins) YOUR ANSWER

Lymphotoxins are a type of cytokine produced primarily by T cells that have cytotoxic effects, but they do not create pores in cell membranes. Instead, they induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in target cells by signaling pathways rather than through direct membrane disruption.

B (Perforins) CORRECT

Perforins effectively create pores in the cell membrane of target cells, allowing for the entry of granzymes that induce apoptosis. This direct action on the membrane is essential for the immune response against infected or malignant cells, making perforins a key component of cytotoxic immune function.

C (Interferons) YOUR ANSWER

Interferons are signaling proteins that play a critical role in the immune response, particularly against viral infections. They enhance the immune response and promote antiviral defenses but do not form pores in cell membranes. Instead, they help protect neighboring cells from viral replication.

D (Cytokines) YOUR ANSWER

Cytokines are a broad category of signaling molecules that mediate and regulate immunity and inflammation. While they can influence various immune responses, they do not create pores in cell membranes. Their role is more about communication between cells rather than direct cell destruction.

Conclusion

Perforins are the specific immune molecules that form pores in target cell membranes, leading to cell destruction, particularly in the context of viral infections or cancer cells. Other choices like lymphotoxins, interferons, and cytokines play significant roles in immune signaling and response but do not directly create these pores. Understanding these distinctions is vital for comprehending immune mechanisms and therapeutic approaches in immunology.

Which of the following immune system molecules creates pores in the cell membrane of their target cells to destroy the cell?

Perforins create pores in the cell membrane of their target cells to destroy the cell.

Related Questions

Related Quizzes

How familiar were you with this question?

Report an Issue

Rate this Practice Test