Immunology Quiz: Neutrophils and Leukocytes

Neutrophils and NETs

• Neutrophils release enzymes to combat microorganisms in extracellular spaces
• The process of creating NETs (Neutrophil Extracellular Traps) is called netosis

Lymphoid Leukocytes and Their Properties

• B cells: adaptive, humoral immunity, antibody-secreting
• T cells: adaptive, cell-mediated immunity, immune response regulation
• NKT cells: adaptive, cell-mediated immunity (glycolipids)
• NK cells: innate, innate response to microbial or viral infection

Eosinophils and Basophils

• Eosinophils: defend against large multicellular parasites
• Basophils and mast cells: produce cytokines, defend against parasites, involved in allergic inflammation

Macrophages and Dendritic Cells

• Macrophages: involved in phagocytosis and intracellular killing of microorganisms
• Macrophages and DCs: contain surface molecules that directionally drive responsiveness and focus adaptive responses

Platelets and Erythrocytes

• Platelets: involved in blood clotting and wound repair, release inflammatory mediators
• Erythrocytes (RBCs): serve as dynamic reservoirs of inflammatory mediators

Lymphoid Cells and Adaptive Immunity

• Lymphoid cells: provide efficient, specific, and long-lasting immunity against microbes and pathogens
• Lymphocytes differentiate into separate lineages, including B and T cells
• B cells: secrete antibodies
• T cells: operate in a supervising role to mediate cellular and humoral immunity
• NK cells: critical in defense against viral agents

Lymphocyte Development and Function

• Lymphocytes express specific receptors for antigens on their cell surfaces
• Primary lymphoid organs: sites where lymphoid cells are generated, including the liver (fetus) and bone marrow (after birth)
• Secondary lymphoid organs: sites where antigen-driven proliferation and maturation of lymphocytes occur

Assess your knowledge of neutrophils, NETs, and different types of lymphoid leukocytes, including B cells, T cells, NKT cells, and NK cells.