When a cancer cell appears in our body, it tries to hide from our immune system. But T cells are smart, and they can recognize when a cell is abnormal. Once they identify a cancer cell, they start to release signals, called cytokines, that activate other immune cells to attack the tumor.
Natural killer (NK) cells are the first line of defense against cancer. They are specialized immune cells that can recognize and destroy cancer cells without prior exposure. NK cells release toxic substances that kill the cancer cells and prevent them from spreading.
Macrophages are another type of immune cell that play an important role in the fight against cancer. They can engulf and destroy cancer cells, as well as other foreign substances. Macrophages also release cytokines that activate other immune cells and promote inflammation, which can help to eliminate cancer cells.
T cells act as commanders, directing the immune response to the cancer. They send out signals to attract other immune cells, like NK cells and macrophages, to join the fight. T cells also release cytokines that activate other immune cells and promote their proliferation and differentiation.
When T cells recognize a cancer cell, they can directly kill it by releasing toxic substances, such as perforin and granzyme, that destroy the cell membrane and induce cell death. T cells can also activate other immune cells, like NK cells and macrophages, to attack the cancer cells.
In addition, T cells can recognize and attack cancer cells that have developed resistance to other treatments, like chemotherapy and radiation therapy. This is because T cells can recognize specific antigens, or markers, that are present on the cancer cells but not on normal cells. By targeting these antigens, T cells can selectively kill the cancer cells and spare the normal cells.
Overall, the interaction between T cells, cancer cells, and other immune cells is a dynamic and complex process that involves multiple mechanisms and pathways. By harnessing the power of the immune system, we can develop new and effective treatments for cancer that can improve patient outcomes and save lives.
