Neutrophils
95% of PMNs
Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that plays an essential role in the immune system. They are part of the innate immune response and are the first line of defense against invading pathogens.
Neutrophils are produced in the bone marrow and then released into the bloodstream, where they circulate until they are needed. When an infection occurs, the neutrophils are attracted to the site of infection by chemical signals released by the invading pathogen and the cells of the infected tissue.
Once the neutrophils arrive at the site of infection, they engulf and destroy the invading pathogen through a process called phagocytosis. They also release chemicals, such as cytokines, that help to recruit other immune cells to the site of infection and promote inflammation, which is important for fighting infection.
Neutrophils have a short lifespan, typically only surviving for a few hours to a few days. They eventually undergo a process called apoptosis, where they break down and are removed by the body’s immune system.
A decrease in the number of circulating neutrophils (neutropenia) can make a person more susceptible to infections, while an increase in neutrophil count (neutrophilia) can indicate an active bacterial infection or other inflammatory condition.
More Answers:
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