Immune surveillance is a process in which _______ nonspecifically detect and destroy foreign cells and diseased host cells.

A. Reticular cells: Reticular cells provide structural support within lymphoid tissues by producing the stroma, but they do not engage in direct destruction of abnormal cells. Their role centers on organizing the tissue microenvironment rather than conducting immune surveillance.

B. Macrophages: Macrophages phagocytose pathogens and debris and help present antigens, but their actions depend on encountering targets rather than performing continuous nonspecific monitoring. Their surveillance is limited compared to NK cells’ rapid response capabilities.

C. Natural killer (NK) cells: NK cells constantly patrol the body and nonspecifically kill virus-infected and cancerous cells through perforin and granzyme release. They do not require prior antigen exposure, making them central to immune surveillance and early defense against abnormal cells.

D. T lymphocytes (T cells): T cells require antigen presentation and activation before responding, so they do not provide the immediate, nonspecific surveillance carried out by NK cells. Their function is part of adaptive immunity rather than constant innate monitoring.

E. Dendritic cells: Dendritic cells specialize in capturing antigens and migrating to lymph nodes to activate T cells. They contribute to immune activation but are not responsible for nonspecific detection and destruction of diseased cells.