Immune cells
Immune Cells
Immune cells, also known as Leukocytes or White Blood Cells, are cells of the Immune System that are involved in protecting the body against both infectious disease and foreign invaders.
Pronunciation
Im•mune Cells (ih-myoon sels)
Etymology
The term "immune" comes from the Latin word "immunis", meaning exempt or protected. The term "cell" comes from the Latin word "cella", meaning a small room. Together, they refer to the cells in the body that are responsible for protecting the body from disease and infection.
Types of Immune Cells
There are several different types of immune cells, each with their own specific functions. These include:
- B Cells: These cells are responsible for producing Antibodies that are used to attack invading bacteria, viruses, and toxins.
- T Cells: These cells are involved in killing infected host cells, activating other immune cells, producing Cytokines, and regulating immune responses.
- Natural Killer Cells: These cells are a type of lymphocyte that are capable of killing infected host cells, cancer cells, and cells that are under stress.
- Macrophages: These cells are involved in detecting, engulfing and destroying pathogens and apoptotic cells.
- Dendritic Cells: These cells are responsible for antigen presentation, and serve as a link between the innate and adaptive immune systems.
- Neutrophils: These are the most abundant type of granulocyte and the most abundant type of white blood cells in most mammals. They form an essential part of the innate immune system.
Related Terms
- Antigen: A substance that induces an immune response in the body, especially the production of antibodies.
- Cytokine: A type of protein that is secreted by immune cells and has an effect on other cells.
- Lymphocyte: A type of white blood cell that is part of the immune system.
- Phagocyte: A type of cell within the body capable of engulfing and absorbing bacteria and other small cells and particles.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Immune cells
- Wikipedia's article - Immune cells
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