Which of the following is a result of the cell-mediated immune response?

The cell-mediated immune response primarily involves the activation of T cells, particularly cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), which are essential for directly targeting and destroying infected cells. This response is crucial for fighting off viral infections and some intracellular bacterial infections, as it does not rely on antibodies but rather on the recognition and elimination of cells that have been compromised by pathogens.

When a pathogen infects a cell, pieces of the pathogen (antigens) are presented on the surface of the infected cell. T cells recognize these antigens via their receptors, leading to the activation of these immune cells. Once activated, CTLs can directly engage with and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in infected cells, effectively controlling the infection and preventing further spread.

In contrast, the other options point to different immune processes. Antibody production is part of the humoral immune response, which is primarily mediated by B cells. Increased blood flow occurs as part of the inflammatory response and is not specific to cell-mediated immunity. Histamine release is a reaction associated with allergic responses and mast cells, which do not play a direct role in cell-mediated immunity. Thus, the destruction of infected cells correctly represents the key outcome of the cell-mediated immune response.