HISTOLOGY LAB: BLOOD CELLS Flashcards
What are hematopoietic cells responsible for?
Creates hematopoietic tissue wherein new blood cells are formed (hematopoiesis).
Where are hematopoietic cells formed?
In red bone marrow in flat bones (pelvis, sternum, skull, scapula) and ends of long bones.
What changes occur in red marrow as a young individual grows?
The red marrow in long bones changes to yellow marrow.
How do immature blood cells differ from mature blood cells?
Immature blood cells are in the development stage, while mature blood cells are fully formed and functional.
What are the two major types of blood cells?
Erythrocytes (RBC) and leukocytes (WBC).
What is the primary function of erythrocytes?
Transport oxygen from the lungs to body tissues and carry carbon dioxide back to the lungs.
What shape do erythrocytes have and why is it important?
Biconcave shape increases surface area for efficient gas exchange.
What feature of erythrocytes allows them to pass through narrow capillaries?
A flexible membrane.
What do erythrocytes lack that maximizes space for hemoglobin?
A nucleus.
What binds to oxygen for transport in erythrocytes?
Hemoglobin.
Where does erythropoiesis occur?
In the bone marrow.
What hormone stimulates erythropoiesis?
Erythropoietin.
What triggers the release of erythropoietin?
Low oxygen levels.
What is the average lifespan of an erythrocyte?
Circulates for about 120 days before being broken down by the spleen.
What are granulocytes?
A type of leukocyte characterized by prominent cytoplasmic granules.
What are the types of granulocytes?
Neutrophils, basophils, and eosinophils.
What is the role of neutrophils?
To respond to infections and inflammation.
What features characterize neutrophils?
Prominent cytoplasmic granules and multilobed nuclei.
How long does it take for neutrophils to be replaced?
12 hours.
What is a band neutrophil?
A slightly immature neutrophil with a crescent-shaped nucleus.
What is the function of basophils?
To respond to allergies and parasitic infections.
What is the shape of basophils’ nuclei?
Bean-shaped.
What percentage of circulating WBCs do basophils represent?
Up to 1%.
What do eosinophils respond to?
Allergies and parasitic infections.
