During T cell activation, which type of mediator is predominantly released?

During T cell activation, the predominant mediators released are cytokines. These small signaling proteins play a crucial role in the immune response by facilitating communication between cells. When T cells are activated, especially by antigen-presenting cells through Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) interactions, they begin to produce and secrete a variety of cytokines.

Cytokines help to regulate the intensity and duration of immune responses. They can promote the proliferation of T cells, assist in the activation of other immune cells, and enhance the overall immune response. For example, cytokines like interleukin-2 (IL-2) are critical for T cell growth and differentiation, highlighting the essential role of cytokines in T cell activation.

While interleukins are a subset of cytokines specifically involved in communication between leukocytes and play a significant role in T cell activation, the term "cytokines" encompasses a broader range of signaling molecules, including interleukins, tumor necrosis factors, and chemokines, making it a more inclusive and accurate choice in the context of T cell activation.

Growth factors and complement proteins, while important in various immune processes, do not predominantly mediate T cell activation. Growth factors are more