Which white blood cells are characterized as granulocytes? Check All That Apply neutrophils eosinophils monocytes lymphocytes macrophages
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Granulocytes are a type of white blood cell (WBC) that contain visible granules in their cytoplasm when viewed under a microscope. These granules are filled with enzymes and other substances that aid in the immune response, particularly in fighting infections. The main types of granulocytes are:
- Neutrophils: These are the most abundant type of granulocyte and are often the first responders to bacterial infections. Neutrophils play a crucial role in phagocytosis, where they engulf and digest pathogens like bacteria.
- Eosinophils: Eosinophils are involved in combating parasitic infections, especially those caused by worms. They also play a role in allergic reactions and inflammatory responses. Their granules contain enzymes that can break down the cell walls of parasites.
The other white blood cells you mentioned, such as monocytes, lymphocytes, and macrophages, are not granulocytes.
- Monocytes are a type of agranulocyte and are involved in phagocytosis and antigen presentation. Once they leave the bloodstream, they mature into macrophages.
- Lymphocytes (which include T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells) are also agranulocytes and are primarily involved in adaptive immunity, such as producing antibodies (B cells) or attacking infected cells (T cells).
- Macrophages are large cells that develop from monocytes and play a vital role in phagocytosis and immune defense, especially in chronic infections, but they do not have the characteristic granules seen in granulocytes.
To summarize:
- Granulocytes: Neutrophils, Eosinophils.
- Agranulocytes: Monocytes, Lymphocytes, Macrophages.
