Agranulocytes

Definition

Agranulocytes are a type of white blood cell that lack visible granules in their cytoplasm. They play key roles in the body's immune response, particularly in combating infections and foreign invaders.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Agranulocytes include lymphocytes and monocytes, which are vital for adaptive and innate immunity respectively.
2. Lymphocytes can be further categorized into T cells, B cells, and natural killer (NK) cells.
3. Monocytes differentiate into macrophages and dendritic cells once they migrate to tissues.
4. Agranulocytes are produced in the bone marrow from hematopoietic stem cells.
5. They have a longer lifespan compared to granulocytes, ranging from several months to years.

Review Questions

Related terms

Granulocytes: A type of white blood cell with visible granules in their cytoplasm that participate in inflammatory responses.

Macrophages:

Differentiated monocytes that engulf and digest pathogens and cellular debris.

T cells:

A subtype of lymphocyte involved in cell-mediated immunity, attacking infected or cancerous cells directly.