sub-divided into two main types, namely neutrophils and macrophages
share the same function - to engulf pathogen(phago - I eat, Latin)
neutrophils
these cells possess a multilobular nucleus
cells of the inate immune system
have a pivotal role to play in the development of acute inflammation
neutrophils also contain granules and can also be classed as one of the granulocytes
granules contain acidic and alkaline phosphatases, defensins and peroxidase - all of which represent the requisite molecules required for successful elimination of the unwanted pathogen (s)
macrophages (termed monocytes when in the blood stream)
cells of the inate immune system
have a horseshoe-shaped nucleus
are large cells
able to undertake phagocytosis and antigen presentation to T cells
are seen in chronic inflammation as they are long-lived cell (unlike neutrophils)
cells comprising the monocyte phagocytic system are tissue bound and, as a result, are further sub-divided depending on their location
e.g. monocytes if in the blood stream
alveolar macrophages if in the lungs
sinus macrophages if in the lymph nodes and spleen
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