A cell of the monocyte, granulocyte, or mast cell lineage.
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dct:description
Myeloid leukocytes are a group of immune cells descended from the myeloid lineage. The myeloid lineage constitutes a significant portion of the body's defense system, particularly against microbial pathogens and foreign substances. Myeloid leukocytes originate from hematopoietic stem cells located in the bone marrow. The commitment of a pluripotent hematopoietic stem cell into a myeloid progenitor cell represents the initiation step towards the development of myeloid leukocytes. Once differentiated, these cells contribute diversely to both the innate and adaptive immune responses in the body.
Myeloid leukocytes include several distinct cell types based on functionality and structure, encompassing monocytes, macrophages, granulocytes (neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils), and dendritic cells. Each cell type has specialized functions, occupying a unique role in the body's immune response. For instance, neutrophils are prolific phagocytes—cells that engulf and destroy pathogens—while eosinophils are instrumental in combating multicellular parasites and modulating allergic inflammatory responses. Monocytes, in addition to their phagocytic activities, can enter peripheral tissues and differentiate into macrophages or dendritic cells which are crucial for antigen presentation to T cells.
Another critical function of myeloid leukocytes is their involvement in tissue remodeling and repair. For example, macrophages not only play a key role in defending the body but also perform duties essential for wound healing, such as removing dead cells and stimulating tissue repair. In general, myeloid leukocytes participate in the removal of old and damaged cells, an essential process for maintaining good health and homeostasis. Through the orchestration of complex interactions and signal transductions, myeloid leukocytes provide the body with a robust defense system against foreign invaders and participate in maintaining the body's overall balance and function.
(This extended description was generated by ChatGPT and reviewed by the CellGuide team, who added references, and by the CL editors, who approved it for inclusion in CL. It may contain information that applies only to some subtypes and species, and so should not be considered definitional.)
