t Cell Receptors
T cell receptors (TCRs) are specialized proteins expressed on the surface of T cells, an important type of white blood cells. They recognize antigens such as proteins and sugars presented by other cells, such as those of a virus-infected cell, and allow the T cells to differentiate between foreign and self-antigens. The binding of antigens to the TCR triggers an immune response, which helps protect the body from infection and tumors. TCRs are also important in the diagnosis and treatment of some diseases, such as cancer, as they can be used to identify cancer cells and can help guide targeted therapies. Thus, understanding the structure and function of TCRs is crucial for the development of new immune-based therapies.
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