Amebocyte

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  Amebocyte

• Amebocyte

Amebocyte

An amebocyte (or amoebocyte) is a type of cell that moves like an amoeba, using pseudopodia. These cells are found in a variety of organisms, including invertebrates and some vertebrates. Amebocytes play crucial roles in the immune system, digestion, and other physiological processes.

Function

Amebocytes are primarily involved in the immune response of organisms. They are capable of phagocytosis, a process where the cell engulfs and digests foreign particles, such as bacteria and dead cells. This function is vital for protecting the organism from infections and maintaining homeostasis.

In addition to their role in the immune system, amebocytes are involved in the distribution of nutrients. In some species, they transport nutrients from the digestive tract to other parts of the body. This is particularly important in organisms with less complex circulatory systems.

Types of Amebocytes

Amebocytes can be found in various forms across different species:

• Coelomocytes: Found in the coelomic fluid of echinoderms, these amebocytes are involved in immune responses and wound repair.
• Hemocytes: Present in the hemolymph of arthropods, hemocytes are responsible for clotting and defense against pathogens.
• Schizocytes: Found in annelids, these cells are involved in the breakdown of hemoglobin and other metabolic processes.

Role in Horseshoe Crabs

In horseshoe crabs, amebocytes are of particular interest due to their use in the Limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL) test. This test is used to detect endotoxins in medical applications. The amebocytes of horseshoe crabs contain a clotting agent that reacts to bacterial endotoxins, making them invaluable for ensuring the safety of pharmaceuticals and medical devices.

Related Pages

• Immune system
• Phagocytosis
• Horseshoe crab
• Limulus amebocyte lysate
• Invertebrate

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