T-Cell Receptor Signaling

In T cells, the T Cell Receptor (TCR) complex is located on the plasma membrane and is designed to identify presented antigen, differentiating between self or safe antigens and potentially harmful pathogenic targets, the latter of which can lead to a unique adaptive immune response. Upon binding to MHC on an antigen presenting cell, the TCR initiates a signaling cascade, pulling in transcription factors and proteins that lead to T cell activation, cytokine production, and proliferation. Activated T cells can have effector or helper-like functions, leading to the maturation of other cell types like B cells.

 

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