What is one potential outcome of macrophages presenting antigens to T cells?

The outcome of macrophages presenting antigens to T cells is indeed the activation of the adaptive immune response. When macrophages, a type of antigen-presenting cell, phagocytize pathogens, they process and present antigens on their surface using major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules. This presentation is crucial for T cell recognition.

When a T cell recognizes an antigen-MHC complex, it undergoes activation, which is a key step in the adaptive immune response. Activated T cells can then proliferate and differentiate into various subtypes, such as helper T cells that assist in activating B cells for antibody production, and cytotoxic T cells that can kill infected cells. Through this process, macrophages effectively bridge the innate and adaptive immune responses, leading to a more robust and specific response to pathogens.

This understanding highlights the critical role of macrophages in shaping the immune response and why their interaction with T cells is essential for mounting an effective defense against infections.