The Major Cell types of the Immune System
Name of Cell
Function
Small lymphocyte
production of antibodies (B cells) or cytotoxic and helper
functions (T cells)
Dendritic cell
activates T cells and initiates adaptive immune response
Plasma cell
fully differentiated form of B cell that secrets antibodies
Mast cell
expulsion of parasites from body through release of
granules containing histamine and other active agents
Natural killer cell
kills infected cells with certain viruses, also kills
cancerous cells
Monocyte
precursor to macrophage, circulates system
Neutrophil
phagocytosis and killing of microorganisms, large
proportion (40-75%) circulating around the body
Macrophage
phagocytosis and killing of microorganisms, also
activation of T cells and initiation of immune responses.
Garbage collectors, gobble up pathogens and dead cells
Eosinophil
killing of antibody-coated parasites through release of
granule contents
Megakaryocyte
platelet formation, wound repair
Basophil
controlling immune responses to parasites
Erythrocytes
oxygen transport (red blood cells)
hematopoietic cell
the type of stem cell that all immune cells come from