NULL CELL Meaning and
Definition
-
The term "null cell" refers to a type of lymphocyte, specifically a natural killer (NK) cell, that lacks expression of specific cell surface receptors. These receptors, known as killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs), are involved in recognizing and interacting with major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules on target cells. Null cells are characterized by their inability to adhere to MHC molecules due to the absence or downregulation of KIRs. This lack of interaction allows them to recognize and eliminate target cells that are devoid of or have reduced MHC expression, such as cancerous or infected cells.
Null cells are an essential part of the immune system's defense mechanism against abnormal cell growth and infection. They possess the ability to directly kill target cells through various mechanisms, including the release of cytotoxic granules containing perforin and granzymes. Furthermore, null cells contribute to immunosurveillance processes, monitoring the body for malignant transformation or virally infected cells. By doing so, they play a crucial role in preventing the proliferation and spread of abnormal cells.
Understanding null cells and their complex interactions with target cells is important in the fields of immunology and cancer research. Manipulating null cells or enhancing their functionalities may have therapeutic implications for various diseases, including cancer and viral infections.
Common Misspellings for NULL CELL
- bull cell
- mull cell
- jull cell
- hull cell
- nyll cell
- nhll cell
- njll cell
- nill cell
- n8ll cell
- n7ll cell
- nukl cell
- nupl cell
- nuol cell
- nulk cell
- nulp cell
- nulo cell
- null xell
- null vell
- null fell
- null dell
Etymology of NULL CELL
The term "null cell" does not have a specific etymology because it is a combination of two separate words: "null" and "cell". Here is a breakdown of the etymology of each word:
1. Null: The word "null" comes from the Latin word "nullus", meaning "none" or "not any". It entered the English language in the 16th century and has remained relatively unchanged. "Null" is commonly used to signify the absence or lack of something.
2. Cell: The word "cell" has a more complex etymology. It originates from the Latin word "cella", which initially referred to a small room or chamber. Over time, "cella" became associated with the small compartments in monasteries used by monks for solitary living.
Similar spelling word for NULL CELL
