Wisconsin Esthetics State Board Practice Test

Which of the following describes T cells?

1. Cells that produce keratin

2. Immune cells that recognize antigens

3. Cells found in the epidermis

4. Cells that produce skin oils

The correct answer is: Immune cells that recognize antigens

T cells are a type of immune cell that play a crucial role in the body's defense against pathogens. They are integral to the immune system because they recognize and respond to antigens, which are foreign substances that can provoke an immune response. Each T cell is programmed to recognize a specific antigen. Upon encountering its corresponding antigen, a T cell can trigger various immune reactions, including the activation of other immune cells such as B cells, which produce antibodies. The other choices describe different types of cells and functions unrelated to T cells. Cells that produce keratin are keratinocytes, which are primarily found in the skin and are essential for its structure and function. Cells in the epidermis primarily refer to those layers of skin that do not encompass the immune function carried out by T cells. Lastly, the cells responsible for producing skin oils are sebaceous glands, which help to keep the skin moisturized and protected. Therefore, the distinguishing characteristic of T cells as immune cells that recognize antigens is the defining feature that makes the second option accurate.