has plasma membrane part CD8-alpha-beta-positive, alpha-beta intraepithelial T cell CD8-positive, alpha-beta intraepithelial T lymphocyte A alpha-beta intraepithelial T cell found in the columnar epithelium of the gastrointestinal tract. Intraepithelial T cells often have distinct developmental pathways and activation requirements. IEL CD8-positive, alpha-beta intraepithelial T-lymphocyte intraepithelial lymphocyte https://cellxgene.cziscience.com/cellguide/CL_0000796 CD8-alpha-beta-positive, alpha-beta intraepithelial T cells are subpopulation of αβ intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs) which are predominately found in the intraepithelial layer of the intestine, skin and lung. They are characterized by the cell surface expression of both αβ T cell receptors (TCRs) and the CD8 αβ co-receptors, which are responsible for recognizing specific antigens expressed on the surface of pathogenic cells. The primary function of CD8-alpha-beta-positive, alpha-beta intraepithelial T cells revolves around providing immune protection by targeting and eliminating cells infected with viruses or other pathogens. The TCR-CD8 complex on their surfaces recognizes major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules on infected cells. After recognition, the T cells bind to the infected cells and release cytotoxic agents that trigger apoptosis, leading to the death of the infected cells and effectively curbing the spread of the invading pathogen. This process also helps create a memory response for the same pathogens, enabling quicker responses in subsequent encounters. With a majority of pathogens entering the body through the epithelial surfaces like skin and mucous membranes, having these T cells strategically located in these layers enables an effective first line of defense. Apart from pathogen detection and removal, they also contribute to maintaining tissue integrity and providing a surveillance mechanism against tumorigenic cells. (This extended description was generated by ChatGPT and reviewed by the CellGuide team, who added references, and by the CL editors, who approved it for inclusion in CL. It may contain information that applies only to some subtypes and species, and so should not be considered definitional.) CD8-positive, alpha-beta intraepithelial T-cell alpha-beta intraepithelial T cell T cell receptor co-receptor CD8