Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes (CTLs) are a subset of T cells that play a pivotal role in the immune system's ability to combat infected or malignant cells. They are characterized by the expression of the CD8 glycoprotein on their surface, which aids in recognizing and binding to antigen-presenting cells (APCs). Once activated, CTLs can directly kill target cells through mechanisms such as the release of perforin and granzymes.
