NK CELLS Meaning and
Definition
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NK cells, short for natural killer cells, are a type of lymphocyte involved in the innate immune response of the human body. These cells form a crucial part of the body's defense mechanism against viruses, bacteria, and certain types of tumors.
NK cells are called "natural killers" due to their remarkable ability to recognize and destroy abnormal or infected cells without requiring prior stimulation. They play a pivotal role in immune surveillance, constantly patrolling the body to identify and eliminate target cells through a process called cytotoxicity.
These specialized white blood cells are primarily found in the blood and lymphoid tissues, such as the spleen and lymph nodes. They possess a variety of surface receptors that allow them to identify and distinguish healthy cells from cells that are infected, cancerous, or otherwise abnormal. NK cells can recognize subtle changes in cellular markers and respond rapidly by releasing cytotoxic substances, such as perforin and granzymes, that induce apoptosis or cell death in the targeted cells.
In addition to their cytotoxic function, NK cells also produce cytokines, which are chemical messengers that regulate and modulate immune responses. These cytokines help coordinate the immune system, facilitating the recruitment and activation of other immune cells to the site of infection or inflammation.
Overall, NK cells play a vital role in both innate and adaptive immunity by promptly recognizing and eliminating dangerous cells, contributing to the body's defense against infections and malignancies.
Common Misspellings for NK CELLS
Etymology of NK CELLS
The term "NK cells" stands for "Natural Killer cells". The word "natural" refers to their ability to function without prior stimulation or activation, while "killer" reflects their primary function of targeting and eliminating infected or abnormal cells. Hence, the etymology of the term "NK cells" is derived from their natural ability to kill infected or abnormal cells.
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