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Updated: Jun 11, 2026

Cell-based Flow Cytometry Assay to Measure Cytotoxic Activity
Published on: December 17, 2013
Direct microbicidal activity of cytotoxic T-lymphocytes
Paul Oykhman1, Christopher H Mody
1Snyder Institute for Infection, Inflammation and Immunity, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada T2N 4N1.
Abstract:
Cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTL) are famous for their ability to kill tumor, allogeneic and virus-infected cells. However, an emerging literature has now demonstrated that CTL also possess the ability to directly recognize and kill bacteria, parasites, and fungi. Here, we review past and recent findings demonstrating the direct microbicidal activity of both CD4(+) and CD8(+) CTL against various microbial pathogens. Further, this review will outline what is known regarding the mechanisms of direct killing and their underlying signalling pathways.
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