Understanding the Roles of Polymorphonuclear Granulocytes and Mononuclear Agranulocytes in the Immune System

Polymorphonuclear granulocytes (PMNs) and mononuclear agranulocytes

2 subtypes of white blood cells

Polymorphonuclear granulocytes (PMNs) and mononuclear agranulocytes are two important types of white blood cells (leukocytes). Both types of cells play crucial roles in the immune system and help protect the body from infection and disease.

PMNs, also known as neutrophils, are the most common type of white blood cells in the body. They are characterized by their lobed nucleus and numerous granules present in their cytoplasm. PMNs are part of the innate immune system and rapidly respond to infections or injuries. They are attracted to the site of infection by chemical signals and engulf and kill invading microorganisms by phagocytosis. PMNs can also release enzymes and toxic substances that destroy microbes, but they also contribute to tissue damage.

Mononuclear agranulocytes, on the other hand, are a diverse group of white blood cells that lack granules in their cytoplasm. The two main types of mononuclear agranulocytes are lymphocytes and monocytes. Lymphocytes are responsible for adaptive immunity and can recognize and destroy specific foreign substances, such as viruses and cancer cells. They are further divided into T cells, B cells, and natural killer (NK) cells. Monocytes, on the other hand, differentiate into macrophages and dendritic cells, which play important roles in phagocytosis, antigen presentation, and immune response regulation.

In summary, PMNs and mononuclear agranulocytes are two important types of white blood cells that play crucial roles in the immune system. PMNs are part of innate immunity and respond quickly to infections, while mononuclear agranulocytes are involved in adaptive immunity and provide long-term protection against specific pathogens.

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