Monocyte

identifiable by their size- they are the largest of the

leukocytes, and have a nucleus shaped like a kidney or a
bean.
The nucleus of monocytes tends to appear lighter after
staining than other leukocytes.
The nucleus should appear a light blue color, while the
chromatin inside is distinct and fine.
 Phagocytes
Phagocytes are white blood cells that are produced
continuously in the bone marrow.
They are stored in the bone marrow before being
distributed around the body.
They are responsible for removing dead cells and invasive
microorganisms.
There are two main types of phagocytes, each with a
specific mode of action.
The two type are: Neutrophils, Macrophages.
As both are phagocytes, both carry out phagocytosis (the
process of recognizing and engulfing a pathogen) but the
process is slightly different for each type.
Neutrophils
Neutrophils are
distinguished byt their
multi-lobed nuclei.
Up to 70% of
leukocytes are
neutrophils- this makes
them easy to spot on a
micrograph.
The granules of
neutrophils typically
stain pink or purple-
blue.
 Lymphocytes
Lymphocytes are small
leukocytes that are
identifiable by their very
large nuclei, which typically
stains a dark color.
Lymphocytes constitute
around 20-25% of all
leukocytes
Lymphocytes are around the
size of red blood cells.
produce antibodies to
destroy microorganisms.
 Platelets
Platelets are fragments of cells that are involved in blood
clotting and forming scabs where the skin has been cut or
punctured
When the skin is broken (i.e. there is a wound) platelets
arrive to stop the bleeding.
A series of reactions occur within the blood plasma
Platelets release chemicals that cause soluble fibrinogen
proteins to convert into insoluble fibrin and form an
insoluble mesh across the wound, trapping red blood cells
and therefore forming a clot.
The clot eventually dries and develops a scab to protect
the wound from bacteria entering.
The Importance of Blood Clotting

Blood clotting prevents blood loss

from wounds.
Scab formation seald the wound with
an insoluble patch that prevents entry
of microorganisms that could cause
infection
It remains in place until new shin had
grown, sealing the skin again.