What type of immunity do T cells primarily mediate?

T cells primarily mediate cell-mediated immunity, which is a crucial component of the adaptive immune system. This type of immunity involves the activation of T cells in response to specific antigens presented by infected or abnormal cells. Unlike antibody-mediated immunity, which is primarily associated with B cells, cell-mediated immunity focuses on directly attacking infected or cancerous cells.

T cells can differentiate into several subtypes, such as cytotoxic T cells that kill infected cells and helper T cells that activate other immune cells. This targeted response allows the immune system to effectively eliminate pathogens that reside within cells, showcasing the importance of T cells in maintaining the body’s defense mechanisms.

In this context, cell-mediated immunity highlights the specificity and adaptability of the immune response, enhancing the body's ability to recognize and fight off specific threats, which is a hallmark of the adaptive immune system.