Module 1: Cells in the Innate Immune System

Question 1

Can locate and ‘eat’ particles such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Macrophages are born from white blood cells called monocytes which are produced by stem cells in our bone marrow.

Answer 1

Macrophages

Question 2

Are a type of white blood cell (WBC or granulocyte) that protects us from infections, among other functions. They make up approximately 40 percent to 60 percent of the white blood cells in our bodies and are the first cells to arrive on the scene when we experience a bacterial infection.

Answer 2

Neutrophils

Question 3

Their main function is to process antigen maerial and present it on the cell surface to the T cells of the immune system. They act as messengers between the innate and the adaptive immune systems.

Answer 3

Dendritic cells

Question 4

Are very similar to basophil granulocytes (class of white blood cells) in blood. Both are graulated cells that contain histamine and heparin, an anticoagulant. Basophils leave the bone marrow already mature, whereas the mast cell circulates in an immature form, only maturing once in a tissue site.

Answer 4

Mast cells

Question 5

Are a type of lymphocyte that control several types of tumors and microbial infectioons by limiting their spread and subsequent tissue damage.

Answer 5

Natura killer (NK) cells