4/8/23, 1:23 AM Overview of the Immune System - Immune Disorders - MSD Manual Consumer Version

How T Cells Recognize Antigens

T cells are part of the immune surveillance system. They travel through the bloodstream and
lymphatic system. When they reach the lymph nodes or another secondary lymphoid organ, they
look for foreign substances (antigens) in the body. However, before they can fully recognize and
respond to a foreign antigen, the antigen must be processed and presented to the T cell by another

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white blood cell, called an antigen-presenting cell. Antigen-presenting cells consist of dendritic cells
(which are the most effective), macrophages, and B cells.

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