Immune system cells: innate immune response
The following cells are mostly involved in the innate immune response:
| Cell type | Functions and properties |
|---|---|
| Neutrophil | Primary phagocytic cell in acute inflammation Granules contain myeloperoxidase and lysozyme Most common type of white blood cell Multi-lobed nucleus |
| Basophil | Releases histamine during allergic response Granules contain histamine and heparin Expresses IgE receptors on the cell surface Bi-lobed nucleus |
| Mast cell | Present in tissues and are similar in function to basophils but derived from different cell lines Releases histamine during allergic response Granules contain histamine and heparin Expresses IgE receptors on the cell surface |
| Eosinophil | Defends against protozoan and helminthic infections Bi-lobed nucleus |
| Monocyte | Diffferentiates into macrophages Kidney shaped nucleus |
| Macrophage | Involved in phagocytosis of cellular debris and pathogens Acts as an antigen presenting cell Major source of IL-1 |
| Natural killer cell | Induce apoptosis in virally infected and tumour cells |
| Dendritic cell | Acts as an antigen presenting cell |