Cytolytic lymphocytes (CTLs) are characterized by their inclusion of cytoplasmic granules containing effector molecules that can mediate target cell death. One mechanism of lymphocyte-mediated killing is the induction of target cell apoptosis. Central to this autolytic pathway is the activation of an endogenous endonuclease that degrades target cell DNA.

See also

 large granular lymphocytes
 TIA1
 granzyme-B (GZMB)

References

 Hong W. Cytotoxic T lymphocyte exocytosis: bring on the SNAREs! Trends Cell Biol. 2005 Dec;15(12):644-50. PMID: #16260137#