HISTIOCYTE Meaning and
Definition
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A histiocyte refers to a type of cell found in the immune system that belongs to the mononuclear phagocyte system. Histocytes are derived from hematopoietic stem cells and are primarily involved in the process of phagocytosis, which is the ability to engulf and eliminate foreign substances or pathogens in the body.
Histocytes are characterized by their large size, cytoplasmic granules, and kidney-shaped nucleus. They are typically found in tissues such as the liver, spleen, and lymph nodes, where they play a vital role in maintaining tissue homeostasis and defending against infections.
The main function of histiocytes is to recognize and eliminate pathogens, damaged cells, and debris through phagocytosis. They have specialized receptors on their surface that can detect antigens present on the surface of foreign invaders. Once a histiocyte recognizes a pathogen, it extends its cytoplasm to engulf it, forming a phagosome. The phagosome then fuses with lysosomes, which contain digestive enzymes to break down the engulfed material.
In addition to their role in immunity, histiocytes also participate in presenting antigens to other immune cells, such as T lymphocytes, to trigger an immune response. They can produce various cytokines and chemokines, which are important signaling molecules that coordinate the immune response.
Abnormalities in histiocytes can lead to various disorders, including histiocytosis, which is a group of rare diseases characterized by the excessive proliferation and accumulation of histiocytes in different tissues.
Common Misspellings for HISTIOCYTE
- gistiocyte
- bistiocyte
- nistiocyte
- jistiocyte
- uistiocyte
- yistiocyte
- hustiocyte
- hjstiocyte
- hkstiocyte
- hostiocyte
- h9stiocyte
- h8stiocyte
- hiatiocyte
- hiztiocyte
- hixtiocyte
- hidtiocyte
- hietiocyte
- hiwtiocyte
- hisriocyte
Etymology of HISTIOCYTE
The word "histiocyte" is derived from two Greek roots: "histo-" and "-cyte".
The prefix "histo-" comes from the Greek word "histos", which means tissue. It is commonly used in terms related to various types or aspects of tissues in the human body.
The suffix "-cyte" comes from the Greek word "kutos", meaning cell. It is used to denote a cell or a cellular component of a specific type.
Therefore, the word "histiocyte" combines these roots to describe a type of cell found in the tissues. Specifically, histiocytes are a type of immune cells that originate from monocytes and are involved in the protection and defense mechanisms of the body. They are often found in connective tissues and participate in immune responses against antigens and foreign substances.
Similar spelling word for HISTIOCYTE
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