Protection Cells

Protection Cells

• The immune system has special cells called white blood cells that patrol the bloodstream to detect and fight against harmful threats like bacteria, infection, or other pathogens.
• White blood cells are like the police, protecting the body from harm, and are connected to the immune system.

White Blood Cells

• White blood cells are made inside the bones and circulate through the bloodstream in search of pathogens.
• There are between 7,000 and 25,000 white blood cells in one drop of blood, and more can be produced if the body is fighting a serious infection.
• White blood cells are also called leukocytes.

Immune System

• The immune system is the body's defense against harmful pathogens that can cause illness.
• White blood cells are an essential part of the immune system, with five different types, each with a unique job:
  • Some fight bacteria
  • Others fight allergies
  • Others battle parasites
• The most common type, neutrophils, fights pathogens like bacteria and fungi.

Neutrophils

• Neutrophils are the most important type of white blood cell.
• When they detect pathogens in the blood, they spring into action and ingest them, much like a vacuum cleaner.
• Neutrophils look like a bumpy snowball, with a white and bumpy exterior, a nucleus (control center) on the inside, and tiny granules that help digest pathogens.
• The clear liquid inside the cell is called cytoplasm.