What role do Granzymes play in the immune response?

What role do Granzymes play in the immune response?

• A. Trigger inflammation in infected tissues
• B. Help cells undergo apoptosis
• C. Enhance the functions of B cells
• D. Activate phagocytes for enhanced destruction

Answer: (B)

Granzymes are serine proteases produced by cytotoxic T cells and natural killer (NK) cells, playing a crucial role in the immune response, particularly in the elimination of virus-infected cells and tumor cells. Their primary function is to induce apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in target cells. When these immune cells recognize a compromised cell, they release granules containing granzymes that enter the target cell through perforin-formed pores. Once inside, granzymes activate a cascade of signals that lead to apoptosis, effectively removing the infected or malignant cells from the body. This process is vital as it helps to prevent the spread of infection and maintains tissue homeostasis. By inducing apoptosis rather than necrosis, granzymes help to limit inflammation and reduce collateral damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Thus, their role in helping cells undergo apoptosis is essential for a controlled and effective immune response.

Granzymes are serine proteases produced by cytotoxic T cells and natural killer (NK) cells, playing a crucial role in the immune response, particularly in the elimination of virus-infected cells and tumor cells. Their primary function is to induce apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in target cells. When these immune cells recognize a compromised cell, they release granules containing granzymes that enter the target cell through perforin-formed pores. Once inside, granzymes activate a cascade of signals that lead to apoptosis, effectively removing the infected or malignant cells from the body.

This process is vital as it helps to prevent the spread of infection and maintains tissue homeostasis. By inducing apoptosis rather than necrosis, granzymes help to limit inflammation and reduce collateral damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Thus, their role in helping cells undergo apoptosis is essential for a controlled and effective immune response.