HISTOCYTE Meaning and
Definition
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A histocyte refers to a specialized cell of the immune system that is responsible for phagocytosis, the process of engulfing and destroying foreign bodies, such as bacteria, viruses, and cellular debris. Histocytes are a type of white blood cell, also known as macrophages, which are found in various tissues throughout the body. They play a vital role in the body's defense against pathogens and are also involved in tissue repair and maintenance.
Histocytes are able to recognize and eliminate harmful substances through their ability to engulf and digest them. Upon encountering a foreign invader, histocytes release enzymes to break down the substance, effectively neutralizing the threat. Furthermore, they can present parts of the foreign particle, known as antigens, to other cells of the immune system, triggering a stronger immune response if necessary.
Histocytes are differentiated cells derived from monocytes, a type of white blood cell produced in the bone marrow. Monocytes circulate in the blood and can migrate to different tissues, where they mature into histocytes. Once in tissue, histocytes are able to reside there for an extended period, continuously surveying the surroundings for potential threats.
Overall, histocytes play a crucial role in maintaining the body's health by defending against infections and participating in tissue repair. Their phagocytic abilities and involvement in immune responses make them invaluable components of the immune system.
Common Misspellings for HISTOCYTE
- gistocyte
- bistocyte
- nistocyte
- jistocyte
- uistocyte
- yistocyte
- hustocyte
- hjstocyte
- hkstocyte
- hostocyte
- h9stocyte
- h8stocyte
- hiatocyte
- hiztocyte
- hixtocyte
- hidtocyte
- hietocyte
- hiwtocyte
- hisrocyte
- hisfocyte
Etymology of HISTOCYTE
The word "histocyte" is derived from two Greek roots: "histo" meaning tissue and "cyte" meaning cell. So, "histocyte" literally translates to "tissue cell" in Greek.
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