Through the T cells receptors (TCRs), CTLs can recognize the MHC class I-associated peptides complex on surface of the antigen presenting cells (APCs) such as malignant cells.

• CTL通过其T细胞受体特异性识别抗原提呈细胞(antigen-presenting cells,APCs)(如肿瘤细胞)表面的主要组织相容性复合体(major histocompatibility complex, MHC)-I类分子-肽复合物,然后自身得以活化,并最终通过多种机制杀死靶细胞。