What is the role of the CD8 T cells in HIV infection?

CD8 T cells, also known as cytotoxic T lymphocytes, play a critical role in the immune response to HIV infection by directly interacting with and killing infected cells. Their primary function is to identify cells that are displaying non-self antigens, such as those presented by HIV-infected cells, and to initiate the destruction of these cells. This process helps to suppress viral replication by eliminating the cells that the virus uses to replicate, thereby reducing the overall viral load in the body.

In addition to their cytotoxic function, CD8 T cells can also secrete various cytokines that help modulate the immune response, enhancing the overall ability of the immune system to fight off the HIV infection. This combination of directly killing infected cells and producing factors that further influence immune responses underscores the pivotal role of CD8 T cells in controlling HIV.

The other options do not accurately describe the primary functions of CD8 T cells in the context of HIV infection. While other cells do play various roles in the immune response, it is specifically the CD8 T cells that are key to killing infected cells and controlling the spread of the virus.