Effector cell

Effector cells are a group of cells that have a role in the body's immune response. They are responsible for carrying out the effects of the immune response, such as destroying infected cells or pathogens. Effector cells can be T cells, B cells, or other types of immune cells.

Types of Effector Cells

There are several types of effector cells, each with a specific role in the immune response.

T Cells

T cells are a type of white blood cell that play a key role in the immune response. There are several types of T cells, including effector T cells. These cells are responsible for recognizing and killing infected cells.

B Cells

B cells are another type of white blood cell that play a role in the immune response. When B cells are activated, they differentiate into plasma cells, which are a type of effector cell. Plasma cells produce antibodies, which are proteins that can bind to specific antigens on the surface of pathogens and help to destroy them.

Natural Killer Cells

Natural killer cells are a type of lymphocyte that can kill infected cells without the need for activation by other immune cells. They are considered a type of effector cell because of their ability to kill infected cells.

Role in the Immune Response

Effector cells play a crucial role in the immune response. They are responsible for carrying out the effects of the immune response, such as destroying infected cells or pathogens. This is done through a variety of mechanisms, including the production of antibodies by B cells, the killing of infected cells by T cells, and the killing of infected cells by natural killer cells.

See Also

• Immune system
• White blood cells
• Antibodies