Neutrophil Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Science

• Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell, making up approximately 70% of the body's total leukocyte count.
• They play a crucial role in the innate immune response, acting as the first line of defense during infections.
• These cells can engulf and destroy bacteria through a process called phagocytosis, where they consume harmful entities.

Medicine

• A high neutrophil count can indicate the body is fighting an infection, while a low count may make a person more susceptible to illnesses.
• Conditions like sepsis can lead to neutrophil exhaustion, where these cells become less effective at fighting infections.

Cultural References

• In medical dramas, neutrophils are often depicted as the unsung heroes of the body's defense system, battling unseen enemies.
• In popular science books, neutrophils are frequently highlighted to illustrate the complexity of the immune system.

Psychology

• Research has shown that stress can impact neutrophil counts, indicating a strong connection between mental well-being and physical health.
• Positive emotions and a supportive social environment may enhance the effectiveness of neutrophils during illness.

Main points about word origin

• The term comes from the Greek words 'neutro' meaning 'neither', referring to the neutral staining of the cells.
• The suffix 'phil' comes from the Greek word 'philos', meaning 'loving', indicating its affinity for certain stains used in microscopy.

The term 'neutrophil' comes from the Greek words 'neutro-', meaning neutral, and 'philos', meaning loving. It was first coined in the late 19th century when scientists were identifying various types of blood cells. Neutrophils are characterized by their neutral-staining granules in the cytoplasm, which distinguishes them from other types of white blood cells. Their main function is to respond rapidly to infections, particularly bacterial, making them an essential part of the body's defense mechanism. Over time, research on neutrophils has expanded to explore their roles beyond mere infection control, including their involvement in tissue repair, chronic inflammation, and even their potential role in autoimmune diseases.

Positioned at #21,719, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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