What are t cells

T cells can be described as those blood cells, which help in protecting the body from various infections. T cells are a part of a certain group of white blood cells, which are known as lymphocytes. There are three main types of T cells in the human body and each one serves a different purpose. The first type is the "Helper T cells", which detects the infection and prepares the other cells in the immune system to fight it off. These cells also signal the B cells to produce antibodies. The second type is the "Cytotoxic T cells", which attacks those cells that have been infected by the virus. Finally, the third type, which is the "Suppressor T cell" lets the immune system know when to stop fighting.

Most people are not aware of what their T cell count is or what the normal T cell count range should be, unless they have recently undergone a test for some reason or the other. A T cell count that is within the range of 700 to 1300 is considered normal. However, there are many fluctuations that can influence the normal T cell count in a person. At times the testing procedure as well as the laboratory process could also have an impact on the T cell count. Therefore, there are many doctors who believe that a reading of over 500 T cells is regarded as a normal T cell count reading. It is possible for you to control the amount of T cells in your body, by making a few dietary choices. There are also certain therapies that can increase T cells count in the body, but these therapies can only be carried out by a doctor. Fortunately, you do not have to consciously worry about maintaining your T cell count.

However, reports about T cells and HIV patients state that the disease has an adverse effect on the immune system and once the virus enters the body, it uses the T cells as a virus producing tool, to spread to other parts of the body. Once the T cells are infected by the HIV virus, they are no longer as effective in fighting off infections. Recent studies about T cells cancer analysis state that it is possible for a cancer patient to have T cells, which can attack their tumor. Therefore, cancer therapy, with T cells can be quite useful, especially for tumor destruction purposes. However, it is best to consult a doctor, for the feasibility of such procedures.

answered by G R

T-cells are a kind of blood cells belonging to a group of white blood cells called lymphocytes. The white blood cell defends our body from infections. The T-cell plays a vital role of protecting the body from infection. They are numerous types of T-cells in our body that act in various ways to identify and combat attacks and destroy infective agents. Alongside the white blood cells, the T-cells assist in protecting our immune system and keep us healthy.

The T-cells are produced in the bone marrow, and later continue to mature and develop in an organ located in the chest known as thymus - therefore the name T-cells. After the maturation process is complete, the T-cells are found in the blood and lymph nodes.

answered by A W