Neutrophil granulocytes
Neutrophil Granulocytes
Neutrophil granulocytes, often referred to as simply neutrophils, are the most abundant type of white blood cells in most mammals. They form an essential part of the immune system. Their primary role is to fight infection by ingesting foreign particles and bacteria, a process known as phagocytosis.
Pronunciation
Neutrophil granulocytes: /ˈnjuːtrəfɪl ˌɡrænjʊˈlaɪts/
Etymology
The term "neutrophil granulocytes" is derived from the Greek words "neutros" (meaning neutral) and "philos" (meaning loving). The term "granulocytes" comes from the Latin "granulum" (meaning small grain) and the Greek "kytos" (meaning cell).
Function
Neutrophils are the first cells to arrive at the site of an infection. They are attracted to the site by chemotactic agents released by bacteria and inflamed tissues. Once at the site, they engulf and destroy the bacteria through phagocytosis.
Related Terms
- Leukocyte: A general term for all types of white blood cells, including neutrophils.
- Eosinophil: Another type of granulocyte, involved in the immune response to parasitic infections and allergic reactions.
- Basophil: The least common type of granulocyte, involved in inflammatory reactions and allergic responses.
- Lymphocyte: A type of white blood cell that is part of the immune system's adaptive response.
- Monocyte: A type of white blood cell that can differentiate into macrophages and dendritic cells to fight infection.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Neutrophil granulocytes
- Wikipedia's article - Neutrophil granulocytes
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