Neutrophil

NeutrophilerAktion

Hypersegmented neutrophil - by Gabriel Caponetti,MD

Reference ranges for blood tests - white blood cells

Hematopoiesis simple

Neutrophil with anthrax copy

File:Нейтрофил крови человека фагоцитирует бактерию.webm

Type of white blood cell

Neutrophil

  File:Neutrophil with bacteria.jpg

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Overview

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See also

• Cell biology
• List of cells in the human body

External links

• Link to external resource

Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell and a crucial component of the immune system. They are the most abundant type of granulocyte and make up 40% to 70% of all white blood cells in humans. Neutrophils are formed from stem cells in the bone marrow and are a part of the body's first line of defense against infection.

Function

Neutrophils play a key role in the innate immune system. They are primarily involved in the process of phagocytosis, where they engulf and digest pathogens such as bacteria and fungi. Neutrophils contain granules that are rich in enzymes and antimicrobial proteins, which help to destroy the ingested microbes.

Structure

Neutrophils are characterized by their multi-lobed nucleus, which typically has three to five lobes connected by thin strands of chromatin. This unique structure allows them to move quickly to sites of infection. The cytoplasm of neutrophils contains granules that are classified into three types: primary (azurophilic), secondary (specific), and tertiary granules, each containing different enzymes and proteins.

Lifespan

The lifespan of neutrophils is relatively short, ranging from 5 to 90 hours. After being released from the bone marrow into the bloodstream, they circulate for a few hours before migrating to tissues where they perform their immune functions. Once they have carried out their role in phagocytosis, they undergo apoptosis and are removed by macrophages.

Clinical Significance

Neutrophil levels in the blood can be indicative of various medical conditions. Neutrophilia, an increase in neutrophil count, can occur in response to infections, inflammation, or stress. Conversely, neutropenia, a decrease in neutrophil count, can make individuals more susceptible to infections and is often seen in conditions such as chemotherapy-induced bone marrow suppression or autoimmune diseases.

Related Cells

Neutrophils are part of the larger family of leukocytes, which also includes lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. Each type of leukocyte has a specific role in the immune response.

See Also

• Immune system
• White blood cell
• Phagocytosis
• Granulocyte
• Bone marrow
• Infection
• Apoptosis
• Macrophage
• Neutrophilia
• Neutropenia

References

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