Immune System Cells: The Body’s Cellular Defenders

vivekaiden 6 views 11 slides Oct 21, 2025
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About This Presentation

The human immune system is a complex network of specialized cells, tissues, andorgans designed to protect the body against infections, cancer, and foreign invaders. Atthe heart of this system are the immune cells—each with a unique function in detecting, responding to, and remembering pathogens. T...


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Immune System Cells: The Body’s Cellular Defenders
learnmicrobiology.com/immune-system-cells-the-bodys-cellular-defenders/
Introduction
The human immune system is a complex network of specialized cells, tissues, and
organs designed to protect the body against infections, cancer, and foreign invaders. At
the heart of this system are the immune cells—each with a unique function in detecting,
responding to, and remembering pathogens.
These vital defenders originate from a common source: hematopoietic stem cells in the
bone marrow.
In this article, we explore the different immune system cells, their origin, structure, and
crucial roles in innate and adaptive immunity.
Hematopoietic Stem Cells: The Origin of Immunity
Hematopoietic (blood-forming) stem cells are self-renewing, pluripotent cells that
can develop and differentiate into various immune system cell types.
They are in charge of continuously regenerating blood, which involves producing
billions of new blood cells daily.
The most crucial cell in bone marrow transplants is the hematopoietic stem cell,
which has the capacity to produce the whole immune system.
These stem cells are central to bone marrow transplants, which aim to restore
immunity and blood cell production in patients with leukemia, lymphoma, and other
hematologic disorders.
The hematopoietic stem cell differentiates into either a common myeloid progenitor
cell or a common lymphoid progenitor cell along one of two routes. They all further
differentiate into other cell kinds.
HSCs follow two primary differentiation pathways:
Common Myeloid Progenitor (CMP) cells
Common Lymphoid Progenitor (CLP) cells
Each pathway leads to the development of specific immune and blood cell types,
regulated by local growth factors and cytokines in the bone marrow niche.
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Myeloid Progenitor Cells: Innate Immunity’s First Responders
Myeloid Progenitor cells are dedicated to a specific cell lineage and have forfeited their
ability to self-renew. Myeloid stem cells give rise to progenitors of platelets and red blood
cells, as well as white blood cells (neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, monocytes,
mast cells, and dendritic cells).
Progenitor cells multiply and develop into relevant cell kinds in the presence of suitable
factors and cytokines.
Neutrophils
Neutrophils are polymorphonuclear (PMN) leucocytes with a multilobed nucleus
and granules in the cytoplasm. They make up 50 to 70 percent of all circulating
white blood cells, have a lifespan of 34 days, and spend 78 hours in the blood
before migrating to tissues.
Neutrophils are also known as polymorphonuclear leukocytes.
Neutrophils engulf pathogens via phagocytosis, produce antimicrobial substances,
and form neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) to capture and destroy microbes.
They are stained with both acidic and basic dyes.
The diameter of neutrophils is 1114 μm.
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Monocytes
Monocytes, which are similar to neutrophils, circulate in the blood. They account for
510% of the total white blood cells. Additionally, they cover the interior surfaces of blood
vessels in organs such as the spleen and liver. Here, they take microorganisms in the
blood as they pass by. Monocytes transform into macrophages when they exit the
circulation and infiltrate the tissues, changing in both size and form.
Macrophages
Macrophages are immune, mononuclear cells that originate from the myeloid progenitors
of the hematopoietic system. They participate in the identification, phagocytosis, and
elimination of pathogens.Macrophages are referred to as microglial cells, kupffer cells,
alveolar macrophages, and osteoclasts, among other names, depending on the tissue
they are in.
Dendritic Cells
The most crucial antigen-presenting cells (APCs) for stimulating naïve T cells are
dendritic cells. They possess phagocytic abilities and lengthy membranous extensions.
Dendritic cells are crucial in connecting innate and adaptive immune responses, as well
as in innate reactions to infections. They present microbial antigens to T lymphocytes.
Basophils
Basophils are blood granulocytes (these granules bind with basic dyes) that have a lot in
common with mast cells in terms of their structure and function. They make up less than
1% of blood leukocytes and originate from bone marrow precursors. Basophils are not
typically found in tissues, but they can be recruited during certain inflammatory
responses. Antigen binding to IgE can induce basophils because they produce receptors
for IgG and IgE and bind IgE.
Eosinophils
These are blood granulocytes that have cytoplasmic granules with enzymes that can
damage the cell walls of parasites. Eosinophils are in charge of controlling inflammatory
reactions and taking part in immediate allergic reactions. Acidic dyes like eosin bind to the
basic proteins found in eosinophil granules. Normally, eosinophils can be found in
peripheral tissues, particularly the mucosal linings of the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and
genitourinary systems.
Red Blood Cells (RBCs)
Red blood cells, also called erythrocytes, are the most common cells in the blood
and are mostly in charge of delivering oxygen from the lungs to the tissues of the
body and transporting carbon dioxide back to the lungs for exhalation.
They have haemoglobin, a red pigment that binds oxygen effectively.
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The unique biconcave shape of red blood cells enhances their surface area for gas
exchange and enables them to pass through tiny blood arteries.
Mature RBCs have no nucleus, unlike the majority of other cells, which allows for
more haemoglobin.
They are created in the bone marrow and, before being broken down in the spleen
and liver, last for around 120 days.
White Blood Cells (WBCs)
Leukocytes, sometimes referred to as white blood cells, are a vital part of the
immune system and aid the body in warding off infections, outside intruders, and
aberrant cells.
WBCs are fewer in number and bigger in size than red blood cells, and they also
contain a nucleus.
They fall into several categories, such neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils,
monocytes, and lymphocytes, each of which has a distinct function in the body’s
defenses against infection, inflammation, and allergies.
Depending on the kind, WBCs can live for a few hours or for many years.
They are made in the bone marrow and lymphatic tissue.
They are always on the lookout for signs of infection or harm as they circulate
throughout the blood and tissues.
Lymphoid Progenitor Cells: Architects of Adaptive Immunity
Common lymphoid progenitor cells produce some dendritic cells as well as B, T,
and NK (natural killer) cells.
The primary cells of the immune system are lymphocytes, which are in charge of
immunological memory and adaptive immunity.
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Diversity, self/non-self-recognition, and specificity are other key features of
lymphocytes.
99% of the cells in the lymph are lymphocytes, which make up 20–40% of the
body’s white blood cells. We have around 10^11 lymphocytes in our body.
When they receive signals, these lymphocytes continuously circulate in our blood
and lymph and move to infection sites.
B Lymphocytes (B Cells)
B lymphocytes, sometimes referred to as B cells, are specialized immune system
cells whose primary role is the production of antibodies, also known as
immunoglobulin.
The letter designation for B lymphocytes originated from the location of their
maturation, the bursa of Fabricius in birds. In the bone marrow, where they also
undergo immunological training and maturation, hematopoietic stem cells give rise
to B cells.
When B cells come into contact with foreign antigens, they react by turning into
plasma cells, which are antibody-secreting cells.
Additionally, B cells can develop into memory cells, which mediate a faster and
stronger secondary immune response.
T Lymphocytes (T Cells)
T cells, also known as T lymphocytes, originate in the bone marrow from
hematopoietic stem cells but finish their maturation in the thymus (the “T” stands for
thymus).
Similar to B lymphocytes, these cells contain membrane receptors for antigens
called T cell receptors (TCR).
T cells target virus-infected cells and also serve as regulators of the immune
system.
Based on their functions, T cells may be divided into three main categories:
1.
Cytotoxic, or “killer,” T cells (CD8 T cells): Kills virally infected or changed
self-cells.
Helper T cells (CD4 T cells) stimulate B cells.
Regulatory T cells assist in reducing the immune response
Natural Killer (NK) Cells
Natural killer (NK) cells are large granular lymphocytes that recognize and
eliminate virus-infected and tumor cells without prior sensitization.
Because they can easily kill cells infected with viruses without the need for thymus
training (which T cells need), natural killer (NK) cells are given their name.
NK cells are able to kill both virally infected cells and aberrant self-cells (cancer
cells).
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The bloodstream and tissues contain a comparatively small number of NK cells.
They are big, granular lymphocytes that lack the surface markers characteristic of B
or T cells.
Key Characteristics of Immune Cells
Immune Cell Origin Main Function Part of Immunity
Neutrophils Myeloid Phagocytosis,
NET formation
Innate
Monocytes/MacrophagesMyeloid Phagocytosis,
antigen
presentation
Innate
Dendritic Cells Myeloid/LymphoidAntigen
presentation
Bridge
(Innate/Adaptive)
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Basophils Myeloid Allergy, parasite
defense
Innate
Eosinophils Myeloid Parasite killing,
allergy
Innate
B Cells Lymphoid Antibody
production
Adaptive
T Cells Lymphoid Cell-mediated
immunity
Adaptive
NK Cells Lymphoid Virus and tumor
killing
Innate-like
Conclusion: A Unified Immune Defense Network
The immune system is an intricate cellular network originating from hematopoietic stem
cells. These stem cells differentiate into either myeloid or lymphoid progenitors, creating
an army of specialized cells that defend against pathogens, clear debris, and maintain
homeostasis.
Innate immune cells— Including neutrophils, macrophages, dendritic cells,
eosinophils, and basophils—act as first responders.
Adaptive immune cells— B cells, T cells, and NK cells—provide targeted and
long-lasting immunity.
Understanding the development and function of these cells has profound implications for
immunotherapy, vaccine development, autoimmune disease management, and
transplant medicine.
As research continues to uncover the complexities of immune cell interactions, we gain
new tools to combat disease and enhance health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the primary difference between innate and adaptive immune
cells?
Innate immune cells offer immediate, non-specific defense, while adaptive immune cells
respond more slowly but provide highly specific and long-lasting protection.
Q2: Which immune cells are responsible for memory in the immune
system?
Memory B cells and memory T cells retain information about past infections and respond
more efficiently during subsequent exposures.
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Q3: Why are hematopoietic stem cells important in bone marrow
transplants?
They can regenerate the entire blood and immune cell population, making them essential
for patients with immune or hematological disorders.
Also Read
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Ribonucleic acid (RNA): Types, Structure & their Function
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Mechanisms and Alternatives
Microscopy: Principles, Types, and Applications
Microbiology: From Microorganisms to Career Opportunities
Spirulina: The Superfood Microalga with Limitless Potential
Bacteriology Quiz
Medical Microbiology Quiz
Basic Microbiology Quiz
Reference and Sources
Cells of the Immune System • Microbe Online
Cells of immune system: Lymphocytes, phagocytic cell, granulocytes and dendritic
cells – Online Biology Notes
Take Immunology Quiz: Test your Knowledge
Immunology Quiz
Challenge your understanding of immunology with our carefully curated quiz covering
foundational to advanced concepts. This interactive set of multiple-choice questions
(MCQs) includes topics like innate and adaptive immunity, antibodies, antigen
presentation, hypersensitivity reactions, and immune disorders. Perfect for students,
competitive exam aspirants, and microbiology enthusiasts looking to revise or reinforce
their knowledge. Start learning smarter with instant feedback and explanations on
LearnMicrobiology.com!
1 / 30
Which immunoglobulin is primarily involved in mucosal immunity?
2 / 30
The complement system enhances immunity by:
3 / 30
Which type of hypersensitivity is antibody-mediated cytotoxic?
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4 / 30
Which antibody is most abundant in human serum?
5 / 30
Which cytokine is primarily responsible for fever?
6 / 30
Which of these cells produces antibodies?
7 / 30
Which of the following is NOT an antigen-presenting cell?
8 / 30
The term "opsonization" refers to:
9 / 30
Which of the following best describes antigenic drift?
10 / 30
Which is a function of Regulatory T cells (Tregs)?
11 / 30
Phagocytosis is carried out primarily by:
12 / 30
Which molecule is crucial for T-cell activation along with the TCR–MHC interaction?
13 / 30
Which immunoglobulin appears first during a primary immune response?
14 / 30
Which of the following diseases is an example of autoimmunity?
15 / 30
Which transcription factor is activated by NF-κB in immune signaling?
16 / 30
Histamine release is most closely associated with which immune response?
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17 / 30
What type of immunity is acquired through vaccination?
18 / 30
Which cell surface marker is found on all helper T cells?
19 / 30
Which interleukin is known as the "T cell growth factor"?
20 / 30
Which pathway of complement activation requires antibodies?
21 / 30
Which is a feature of a secondary immune response?
22 / 30
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are part of which immune system?Adaptive
23 / 30
Which of the following immunoglobulins can cross the placenta?
24 / 30
The process of central tolerance occurs in the:
25 / 30
Which of the following is a component of the innate immune system?
26 / 30
MHC class I molecules present antigens to:
27 / 30
What is the primary function of the immune system?
28 / 30
What is the function of the J chain in immunoglobulins?
29 / 30
Clonal selection refers to:
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30 / 30
Which organ is responsible for the maturation of T lymphocytes?
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