CD8

CD8 is a protein found on the surface of certain immune cells called T cells, specifically cytotoxic T cells. These cells play a crucial role in the body's defense by identifying and destroying infected or cancerous cells. CD8 acts as a marker that helps these T cells recognize their targets. When an infected cell presents specific signals, the CD8 protein helps the cytotoxic T cell bind securely to it, enabling the immune response. In summary, CD8 is essential for the immune system to efficiently identify and eliminate harmful cells.