Adult Health Nursing Study Guide Answers Related

Review Adult Health Nursing Study Guide Answers related questions and content

Which of the following statements accurately describes the role of natural killer (NK) cells in the immune response?

  • A. NK cells directly kill virus-infected cells and tumor cells.
  • B. NK cells produce antibodies against pathogens.
  • C. NK cells present antigens to T cells to initiate adaptive immunity.
  • D. NK cells release cytokines to recruit other immune cells to the site of infection.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Natural killer (NK) cells play a vital role in the innate immune response by identifying and eliminating virus-infected cells, as well as tumor cells, without the need for prior exposure or activation. NK cells are able to detect abnormal cells by recognizing changes in the cell surface molecules, such as downregulation of MHC class I molecules. Once activated, NK cells release cytotoxic granules containing perforin and granzyme, leading to the destruction of the target cell. This direct killing mechanism is crucial for controlling viral infections and preventing the development of tumors. NK cells do not produce antibodies (option B), present antigens to T cells (option C), or release cytokines to recruit other immune cells (option D) as their primary function in the immune response.