Which type of immunity promotes the intracellular destruction of microbes?

Cell-mediated immunity is the correct choice as it involves the activation of specific immune cells to target and destroy intracellular pathogens, such as viruses and certain bacteria. This type of immunity primarily relies on T cells, including cytotoxic T lymphocytes, which directly kill infected host cells or facilitate other immune responses aimed at eradicating intracellular threats. By recognizing and binding to antigens presented on infected cells, these T cells can induce apoptosis (programmed cell death), significantly contributing to the clearance of intracellular infections.

In contrast, innate immunity refers to the body’s first line of defense mechanisms that respond rapidly to pathogens but does not specifically target intracellular microbes in a precise manner. Humoral immunity involves the production of antibodies by B cells, which primarily function in neutralizing extracellular pathogens and toxins rather than targeting those within host cells. Autoimmunity is characterized by an immune response against the body's own tissues, leading to disease, and does not pertain to the destruction of intracellular microbes.