How does the destruction of t cells lead to the failure of the overall immune system?

T cells are crucial components of the immune system, responsible for identifying and attacking infected or cancerous cells. Their destruction, as seen in conditions like HIV/AIDS, impairs both the cellular and humoral immune responses, leading to an inability to mount effective defenses against pathogens. This results in increased susceptibility to infections and diseases, as well as a compromised ability to regulate other immune cells, further exacerbating overall immune system failure.