Can I get clarification on the cells that take part in the immune system (ex. neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils) and their functions?
The immune system is a broad, complex network consisting of various cells and organs. This system will defend the body from foreign substances such as bacteria, fungi, virus and tumor cell. The response which has been taken by the immune system when the body meets any foreign substances is called immune response.
Bone marrow produces three types of blood cells: red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.
Red blood cells: They are filled with the protein called haemoglobin and they can carry oxygen to all the parts of the body.
Platelets: They help the blood to coagulate thus prevents bleeding in case of injuries.
White blood cells: These are the major part of the immune system, help the body fight against infections and diseases. These are also called as leukocytes. When the body is in distressed condition these cells will help kill the foreign substance and thus prevent illness.
Types of white blood cells:
Granulocytes (Neutrophils, eosinophils and basophils).
Lymphocytes (T cells, B cells and NK cells).
Monocytes.
Granulocytes:
These are the type of white blood cells consisting of granules with enzymes.
Neutrophils: These cells are our “first responders” act as the first line defence mechanism of our body. They keep circulating in the bloodstream and when they sense the presence of any foreign substances or toxins they move to the site and start killing the invading microorganisms.
Their primary function is the ingestion and the destruction of invading microbes, a process called phagocytosis. They will extend their pseudopoda around the microbe and starts releasing the enzymes. So, the foreign agent will get destroyed.
As they are abundant in number, they can make 60% of the body’s immunity.
They consists of antimicrobial effectors which act as body’s natural antibiotics.
These cells can live only for a short span of time. They can use a dramatic suicide mechanism in order to control the entry of foreign agents.
Eosinophils: They are best known for their role in various inflammatory processes especially allergic condition.
They also have an important role in organ formation. They play a vital role in fighting against bacteria and infections caused by parasites such as worms.
Their other functions include killing foreign agents, trapping substances, anti-parasitic and bactericidal activity and the modulation of inflammatory responses.
Basophils: They are present in the tissues of the skin and mucosa and are active in inflammatory response.
It plays a vital role in the prevention of blood clotting which is due to the presence of heparin. Heparin is the chemical substance which is naturally a blood thinning substance.
They release a chemical known as histamine during allergic reactions. This chemical will begin the process of getting rid of foreign agents in the body. This type of response serves as the fastest indicators that something which is unknown is invading the body.
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