Helper cell

Helper cell
A type of T cell that participates in the immune response by recognizing foreign antigens and secreting substances called cytokines that activate T and B cells. Helper cells fall into two main classes: those that activate other T cells to achieve cellular inflammatory responses; and those that drive B cells to produce antibodies in the humoral immune response. These two classes of response are generally incompatible with one another and require coordination by substances called cytokines to promote one response while dampening the other. The HIV virus attacks T-helper cells, knocking out the body’s ability to defend itself against infections. Helper cells have CD4 markers on their surface and are also known as CD4 cells, T-4 cells, T-helper cells, and helper T cells.

Medical dictionary. 2011.

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Look at other dictionaries:

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  • helper cell — noun see helper T cell …   New Collegiate Dictionary

  • helper cell — noun Physiology a T lymphocyte that influences or controls the differentiation or activity of other cells of the immune system. Compare with killer cell …   English new terms dictionary

  • helper cell — T cells that assist in stimulating B and T lymphocytes to develop into antibody producing plasma cells and killer T cells, respectively …   Glossary of Biotechnology

  • T helper cell — T helper cells (also known as effector T cells or Th cells) are a sub group of lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell or leukocyte) that plays an important role in establishing and maximizing the capabilities of the immune system. These cells… …   Wikipedia

  • helper cells — helper T cells differentiated T lymphocytes whose cooperation (help) is required for the production of antibody against most (T dependent) antigens. Activation of B lymphocytes (B cells) requires recognition of the antigenic determinant against… …   Medical dictionary

  • T-helper cell — T help·er cell ( )tē hel pər n HELPER T CELL …   Medical dictionary

  • T-helper cell — noun Date: 1980 helper T cell …   New Collegiate Dictionary

  • T helper cell — Immunol. See helper T cell. * * * …   Universalium

  • T helper cell — n. bai (mcr imv)imu helper T cell …   From formal English to slang

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